A proposed tax levy increase for the Pettis County Fire Protection District was thoroughly rejected by voters during Tuesday’s Special Election, causing the district to re-think its plan moving forward.

The district was seeking a tax levy increase of 48 cents per $100 assessed valuation. This would have been the first increase in 30 years for Pettis County Fire, which has recently absorbed stations in Smithton and Houstonia and now covers nine fire stations in the county. However, voters rejected the increase, with 72 percent of those who cast ballots voting against the measure.

Pettis County Fire Chief Mike Harding says the levy increase would have more than doubled the department’s $800,000 budget, allowing the department staff for 24/7 fire protection and replace several fire engines.

Harding expressed disappointment with the outcome of the election, but still appreciates voters for making their voices heard.

Harding says the district’s Board of Directors will go back to the drawing board to work on a scaled-back plan to get more community support on a future levy increase.