A local community has a critical need to add full time fire support and cross-trained staff to also provide emergency services.

Fort Atkinson voters will head to the polls April 5th to consider a just under $770,000 referendum.

City Council President Chris Scherer says the intention is to cover the cost of two additional police officers, six full-time firefighter paramedics, and six full time firefighter/EMT’s.

Scherer says the City can’t continue with a volunteer-reliant fire department. Combining fire and EMS is the most sustainable option for taxpayers as well as provides the revenue for the fire service.

Scherer says the cost to the owner of a $160,000 home would be about $131 a year.

Residents can learn more during a pair of council-led informational meetings on March 23rd at 7:00 p.m. at Cafe Carpe, and March 30th at 6:00 p.m. at the Fort Atkinson American Legion.