In John Day, the city and rural fire district had some unfortunate news recently regarding the proposed bond measure to build a new fire hall. The tax rate, projected at a modest rate by the citys original consultant, is likely to be quite a bit higher when all the variables are factored in as was done by the new bond advisers.

The change isnt the kind of message a municipality wants to present just weeks before a bond vote. It could make undecided voters balk, either at the new price tag or the changing story.

Clearly, the original consultant hasnt done the agencies any favors with its unrealistic estimate.

But voters should note that some critical things havent changed. As bond supporters were quick to point out, one is the overall cost of the project estimated at $1.2 million. More important, the need is unchanged. The old fire hall is too small for modern equipment, and the structure has cracks, leaks and other flaws that cant be fixed with a new coat of paint.

At this point, the community can build a new fire hall that provides adequate storage and training space for a much needed volunteer service, or they can wait for the existing building to crumble away or pose liability issues.

We urge voters to take a look at the new information, as detailed in last weeks Eagle. Its each taxpayers responsibility to weigh the costs in the context of their own circumstances. We hope they also will factor in the need and the importance of fire protection for their property security and values, and then make the fire station a personal and community priority. SC