Fire protection in Sonoma County is getting a massive financial shot in the arm as the first results of a new sales tax are made public.
Per the Press Democrat, new financial reports show that local fire agencies have already received over $45 million from Measure H, the half-cent sales tax approved by voters in 2024. This marks the first major influx of cash for 29 local departments since the tax took effect.
The funds are being used to hire more firefighters, upgrade aging equipment, and ramp up wildfire prevention efforts like vegetation management. While some smaller agencies are still adjusting to the new reporting process, officials say the money is finally allowing departments to perform at the level the community needs.
With over $78 million collected in total since October, the program is on track to provide a historic level of support for countywide fire safety.
