While most of us are experiencing some sort of budget shortfall, the good news is there is no budget problem at the Orcas Fire Department.

After attending three meetings where the budget was presented, I have come to the conclusion that the Fire Commissioners have “no worries.”

A detailed budget was presented and very little discussion followed.

The Operating Budget for 2009 is $1,480,655. This include Staff Expenditures of $758,266. This includes a 4.9 percent increase to some well-funded positions compared to the usual 2.5 percent from previous years and up to 12 percent for one position. We have come a long way from, let’s say 2004, when Staff Expenditures were $404,423.

The Fire Department can continue on this spending spree until the next levy is needed.

This does not include capital improvements for 2009.

We need to make sure that we know what we are voting for when approving any levy.

This budget will be approved at the Nov. 11 meeting.

Pierrette Guimond

Orcas