West Manatee fire referendum shot down again
The West Manatee Fire District was hoping the third time would be the charm in asking for help from voters.
But for the third time this year, they voted down a referendum to approve a tax hike that would have increased pay for more staff and training for the fire district.
The vote was 53 against to 47 in favor of the hike. Earlier in the campaign, Manatee residents questioned the need for more money for the department, saying there weren't enough fires to justify a tax hike.
Department heads differed, pointing out backup fire fighters are needed to provide better service and could have lowered home owner's insurance premiums by reducing the department's rating.
In other key races, incumbent SueLynn defeated Gary Deffenbaugh, 76 percent to 24, to win the Mayor's race in Anna Maria Island.
Another incumbent, Charlie Wells, defeated Kevin Murphy 71-29 to retain his position as Manatee County Sheriff.
