Snohomish Fire District 4 Defends 18-Person Staffing Model in Public Letter

Snohomish Fire District 4 is operating under a staffing plan that its supporters say delivers tangible results for taxpayers.

Paul Keller, a former district resident currently incarcerated at Stafford Creek Corrections Center in Aberdeen, wrote to the Snohomish County Tribune to detail his support for the department's current leadership and future plans. Keller noted that the district released a request for proposals earlier in 2026 for a new five-year strategic plan. The department currently maintains a district-wide 24/7 staffing level of 12 personnel.

Keller proposed an alternative 24/7 staffing model totaling 18 personnel. Under this plan, Station 41 would house nine staff members, including one battalion chief, three engine crew, three ladder crew, and two paramedics in a medical unit. Station 42 would have three staff, with an engine crew of three including one paramedic and a medical unit. Station 43 would be staffed by six personnel, including a two-person apparatus, a three-person engine crew with one paramedic, a medical unit, and a mobile station officer.

The letter addresses the future of the mobile station officer role at Station 43. Keller indicated that this position will remain under an existing interlocal agreement with the State Response Force through December 31, 2028. The district is scheduled to assume control of that position on January 1, 2029.

Keller also commented on Station 40, which was constructed 35 years ago. He described the station's location as prescient due to substantial growth in that area since its construction. He supported the decision to keep and maintain the station, citing current issues with the Bickford Bridge as a relevant factor.