I applaud the recent responses members of our fire department have provided those in our community who have voiced their complaints and concerns in The Mirror’s letters to the editor.

Our community benefits when we vote based on facts and evidence rather than emotion and assumptions. South King Fire and Rescue has a proven track record of efficiently using our tax dollars and continues to offer higher quality fire and emergency services at a lower cost than surrounding communities.

By voting yes on Proposition 1, we have an opportunity as a community to make a significant impact upon the services they can provide us. This levy will allow our fire department to address the increased number of medical calls it receives, cutting down on response times when seconds matter most.

For less than what it costs to fill up my gas tank, our neighborhoods will be better served and our families safer because of the services these men and women will be able to provide. I encourage you to vote yes this August.

Danny Peterson, Federal Way

(Note: Peterson is on the Federal Way School Board)