Red, White and Blue Fire Protection District Board Approves Ballot Language for Issues A and B on May 6, 2025 Election

Breckenridge, CO — March 3, 2025 — The Red, White and Blue Fire Protection District (RWB) announced today that the Fire Protection District Board has approved ballot language for two key issues — Issues A and B — scheduled for a vote on May 6, 2025.

RWB has been a steadfast protector of public safety, resilience, and sustainability in the region, boasting an impressive 40% cardiac arrest survival rate—four times the national average of 10%—along with a 99.9% patient satisfaction rating in patients they serve. In addition, RWB safeguards over $20 billion in property, protects 10,000 full-time residents, and serves up to 60,000 people through local tourism, all through extensive wildfire mitigation strategies and crisis planning. Beyond emergency response, RWB is a dedicated community partner, demonstrated through youth safety education initiatives and collaborations with local organizations to offer CPR training and seatbelt safety programs.

“As our community continually faces the very real threats of wildfires and other large-scale emergencies in our mountain community, it’s essential that we remain proactive and prepared. By ensuring that the district is properly funded, Issues A and B will continue to provide the resources, training, and services necessary to keep our families, homes, and businesses safe,” said Austyn Dineen, RWB Board Chair. “The work we do today will protect our community for generations to come, and your support is critical in helping us maintain the safety and resilience of this beautiful place we all call home.”

RWB has not requested a mill-levy increase since 2006 demonstrating strong stewardship of taxpayer dollars. However, recent changes—such as recently passed House Bill 24B-1001, which lowers residential assessment rates and caps revenue increases—unexpectedly threaten the district’s long-term sustainability. In response, RWB proposes a modest 4-mill increase, raising the total to 13 mills, which would cost taxpayers an additional $25.92 per $100,000 of assessed home value per year. The district also seeks to remove the state-imposed 5.25% revenue increase cap, allowing more flexibility to meet ongoing financial needs and continue providing top-tier service.

Issues A and B will enable the District to continue its vital mission of protecting the Upper Blue Basin community for years to come, building on nearly 150 years of dedicated service. By investing in RWB, taxpayers are safeguarding their homes and businesses and supporting a resilient, sustainable future for the district. RWB remains committed to keeping the community safe, enhancing residents' quality of life, and providing world-class service to all who call it home.

All registered voters within the RWB Special District will receive a mail-in ballot. Ballots will be sent out the week of April 13, 2025, and can be returned by mail or dropped off at the fire stations at 316 North Main St. Ballots must be received by 7:00 p.m. on May 6, 2025. Red, White, and Blue Fire Protection District encourages all voters in the Upper Blue Basin to cast their ballots this May.

For more information on Issues A and B, and how they will impact the future of our community, please visit https://www.rwbfire.org/election-information.

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Media Contact:
Drew Hoehn, Fire & EMS Chief, chiefs@rwbfire.org, 970-453-2474
Jay Nelson, Chief Executive Officer/Fire Marshal, chiefs@rwbfire.org, 970-453-2474

About Red, White and Blue Fire Protection District

For close to a century and a half, the Red White and Blue Fire Protection District has been a vital part of the community, providing fire protection, emergency medical services, and a strong commitment to public safety. The district focuses on enhancing community resilience, safety, and sustainability through proactive fire prevention, emergency preparedness, and public education initiatives, while fostering a strong partnership with residents to ensure the continued safety and well-being of the Upper Blue Basin. RWB is one of only 17 fire departments in the nation, out of nearly 30,000, to hold dual accreditation through the Center for Public Safety Excellence (CPSE) and the Commission on Accreditation of Ambulance Services (CAAS), showcasing its dedication to excellence in both fire and EMS services.