Matthew Jarvis’ recent letter (July 24) about Proposition One is incorrect. I would like to take this opportunity to make sure citizens have the facts about this ballot measure that will maintain emergency services for their fire department.

Our wellness program follows the national standard and has measurably improved firefighter health — a clear benefit to the citizens we serve. Our firefighters need to be able to carry people out of fires and lift them at accident scenes. To call this a luxury clearly misrepresents the intent and function of the program.

Second, suggesting that the fire department charge an individual “subscriber fee” for emergency services would be harmful to our community. This service model has been tried multiple times throughout the country and has never succeeded. People who feel they can’t afford the service won’t call 911, leading to a greater disaster during fires, hazardous material spills and health-related concerns.

Fire departments — just like police and schools — are funded as a public service. We are thankful to serve a community that recognizes the importance of having a professionally trained, fully staffed and equipped emergency workforce. This is what will be sustained with the passage of Proposition 1.

Ed Plumlee, assistant fire chief, South King Fire and Rescue