GREENBRIER COUNTY -
Saturday's Fire Levy in Greenbrier County did not pass. 59 News heard from you to find out why this extra tax didn't get support at the polls.
The Greenbrier County fire levy is a tax that would have been paid yearly and benefited all 15 fire departments in the county. Most people told us they believe if the levy had been less expensive, it would have passed.
"If it would have been less, they would have got it, it would have passed," said Rupert's Joe Springirth.
"Our firemen need their equipment and the things to help the people. They get called on for everything," said Tammy Herndon of Rainelle.
"We live in such a rural area that our firefighters and emergency responders are often the first line of defense, not only in a home fire situation but in an auto accident or in case of flooding. So I wish the levy would have passed so they would have the better and proper equipment to serve our community better," Laurie Starcher of Quinwood said.
A man from Rupert old 59 News he wasn't in favor of the levy because of the financial consequence it would have carried.
"I'm so glad it didn't pass because my property, the way it read in the paper, it said it'll go up considerably," said Rupert's Charles Cameron.
Starcher says she understands that not everyone has the extra money, but it's a necessary expense.
"If you don't have the money and then an emergency occurs, the firemen are still going to come and help. It's not contingent upon whether you have the money. So I do understand, but I think it was a worthwhile cause," said Starcher.
68% of voters were against it. That's 2,400 votes against the levy and 1,100 for it.
If the levy would have passed it would have cost around $50 per household annually.
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