07/08/2026
Over the past several weeks, I've had the opportunity to talk with many residents about the upcoming Fire Operating Millages. Many of the questions have been the same, so I thought it might be helpful to put together a simple fact sheet that explains how our fire department is funded and answers some of the questions I've been hearing.
One thing that's always been important to me is making sure people have accurate information. An informed community is a stronger community, and I believe everyone deserves the chance to understand what they're being asked to vote on before they cast their ballot.
This fact sheet covers topics such as:
• Why these are not new millages.
• How the Headlee Amendment has affected the millage rates over time.
• How our regional fire department is funded.
• Where the department's budget is invested.
• How the demand for Fire and EMS services has changed over the past 10 years.
If reading through this brings up additional questions, I'd be happy to talk with you.
Please feel free to call me, send me an email, or stop by my office. I'm also happy to attend neighborhood association meetings, homeowners associations, civic groups, service clubs, churches, businesses, or any other gathering where people would like to ask questions and have an open conversation. My commitment is simply to provide factual information and answer questions to the very best of my ability so everyone has the information they need to make their own informed decision.
No matter where you stand on these proposals, I'm here to answer your questions. I appreciate respectful conversations and welcome the chance to discuss them with anyone who would like more information.
Thank you for taking a few minutes to read through the fact sheet and for taking an active interest in the Waterford Regional Fire Department.
As always, my door is open,
Matthew J. Nye
Fire Chief
Waterford Regional Fire Department
