Hilltop Fire District Celebrates Voters’ Thumbs Up for Essential Facility Upgrades in Spartanburg
Happy news for the folks in Spartanburg, South Carolina! The voters from the Hilltop Fire District have spoken loud and clear, giving their stamp of approval on two essential, game-changing questions on their ballot. Not without amazement, they’ve said yes to a property tax increase and a hefty $2.5 million bond referendum. Now, that bucks-sized amount definitely sounds like a mouthful, but Fire Chief Donald Millis assures us it’s a much-needed win for his team and the community.
A Vital Step Towards Progress
Grinning from ear to ear, Chief Millis announced, “The two things that passed were a big, big help to the fire district. We are happy to know that we are supported by our tax payers. They represented us well in the election.” That support, my friends, reflects just how much value the community places on their firefighters and their service.
More Mills, More Upgrades
First up was the 10 millage property tax increase referendum, which passed handsomely with close to 60% of the vote. It was all about getting that little nudge from the currently sitting 45 mills to a comfortable 55 mills. Now, hold onto your hats because this doesn’t mean they’ll charge 55 mills right off the bat—it’s just a much needed cushion for any unanticipated inflation down the road.
The Million-Dollar Upgrade
The second referendum was the real game-changer: a whopping $2.5 million bond referendum, which passed with a clear 73% approval. This major financial boost is exactly what the fire department needs to make some long overdue upgrades to their beloved, yet aging facility—a facelift for the first time since the 90s.
Out with the Old, In with the New
Chief Millis explained, “We want to do some updates to the station to make the station better for the firemen and the people that work here.” From repairing leaky roofs to installing new AC units, it’s clear that this cash injection will be put to good use in revamping the department. And a cherry on top? A brand spanking new fire truck will also be purchased!
Enhancing Spartanburg’s Cityscape
The improvements won’t just benefit the fire department internally, they’ll also enhance the aesthetic appearance of the fire station, tying in with the local Gateway Beautification Project. “[The improvements will be] something to make the taxpayers proud and visitors coming through, they will know that there is a fire department here,” added Millis. Hilltop Fire District is already drafting plans for the renovations, sure to make the building a true beacon in the community.
The Bottom Line
So, here’s the ignition key for critical upgrades at Hilltop Fire District, thanks to the agreed property tax increase and $2.5 million bond referendum. With the plethora of improvements planned, it’s safe to say the firefighters have a lot to look forward to. For the good people of Spartanburg, this truly is remarkable community achievement.
