Balentine: Why Aspen must say ‘yes’ to ballot issues 6A and 6B

After 36 years of service to Aspen Fire — 12 of them as Chief — I’ve seen how fast an ordinary day can turn extraordinary. One spark, one medical emergency, one bad accident on Highway 82 can change lives in an instant. That’s why the upcoming Ballot Issues 6A and 6B are so important. They aren’t about politics — they’re about preparedness, safety, and resilience.

Investing in readiness before the next crisis

Wildfires in Colorado are burning hotter, moving faster, and threatening more homes than ever before. The South Canyon Fire, Lake Christine Fire, and countless near misses here in the upper valley have shown us how high the stakes are. Wildfire doesn’t wait, and neither can we.

Issue 6A, the proposed half-cent sales tax, would provide essential funding to strengthen Aspen’s wildfire mitigation and emergency response capabilities. That includes modern wildfire-ready equipment, expanded defensible-space programs, and cutting-edge technology for early detection and rapid response. It would also protect the health and safety of firefighters — funding cancer-prevention efforts, PFAS-free gear, and mental health resources that are long overdue. Every one of these measures helps ensure that the people who run toward danger can do so safely and effectively.

A fair and modest approach

A half-cent tax means just five cents on a $10 purchase — a modest, fair contribution that shares the cost among everyone who benefits, including visitors who rely on Aspen Fire’s services when they need them. Groceries, prescriptions, and essentials remain tax-exempt. This is a pragmatic, community-based approach to resilience.

Maintaining strength without raising rates

Issue 6B simply extends an existing 0.24 mill levy — without increasing anyone’s current tax rate. That continuation, about $1 million annually, helps maintain core fire district operations at a time when costs for vehicles, fuel, and station maintenance continue to climb while property tax revenues decline. This stability allows Aspen Fire to replace aging engines, upgrade critical infrastructure, and maintain the readiness the community depends on.

A vote for safety, sustainability, and community

Together, 6A and 6B represent a proactive investment in the safety of Aspen’s residents, visitors, and firefighters. They ensure our community remains resilient in the face of growing wildfire threats and the demands of modern emergency response. I encourage every voter to learn more at friendsofaspenfire.org, and please vote “yes” on 6A and 6B.

The price of preparedness is small compared to the cost of being unprepared.

Rick Balentine, Former Fire Chief, Aspen Fire Protection District

Carbondale