Ripon Fire District Seeks Community Input for 2026 Tax Measure

Announcement posted on RCFD social media.

After a failed attempt last August, the Ripon Consolidated Fire District is making another push to secure funding for essential services – this time by engaging the community from the start.

The fire district announced on April 17 that it's forming a 218 Parcel Assessment Committee, inviting residents to help shape a potential 2026 ballot measure. This marks the district's fourth attempt since 2007 to increase property assessments for fire services.

"Your participation and expertise will be valuable in shaping the upcoming tax measure," the district stated in its social media announcement. The committee will address ongoing challenges facing the agency, including critical staffing shortages at facilities like Station 3 on North Ripon Road, which currently sits unmanned.

The timing is crucial. Last year's measure fell short, with 54.19 percent of voters opposing the assessment increase that would have funded additional personnel. The RCFD, which serves a 56-square-mile area in south San Joaquin County, provides both fire and ambulance services to local residents and businesses.

Fire Chief Eric DeHart is spearheading the initiative, offering multiple ways for interested community members to get involved. Residents can reach him directly at 209-599-4209, email edehart@riponfire.com, or visit him at Ripon Station #1 on 142 S. Stockton Ave.

Those interested in joining the committee must submit their names by Wednesday, May 7, 2025, at 5:00 PM. The new measure is tentatively scheduled for Spring 2026, giving the committee nearly a year to develop a proposal that better aligns with community needs and expectations.