Columbia Basin News | Last updated Aug 11, 2026
Residents packed Othello’s city council chambers Monday evening to learn about the city’s plans to annex into Adams County Fire District 5 and repair the community pool. Both issues have sparked local debate for years.
The city’s decision to pursue fire district annexation marks a complete reversal from its 2025 plan to create an independent fire department. For more than 20 years, Adams County Fire District 5 has provided fire services to Othello under contract. That contract required the city to pay about 65 cents per $1,000 in property value, similar to what county residents pay. Previous city leaders believed the city could operate its own department for less once the contract expired.
The vote sparked debate, with many residents opposing the creation of a city fire department. Since the 2025 election, new city leaders have abandoned those plans and now support official annexation.
City Administrator Aaron Garza said annexation will benefit residents. “It increases our economies of scale, combines our resources and makes fire services stronger. It also provides long-term sustainability,” he said.
Annexation brings complicated tax considerations.
The city’s tax situation remains complicated. When the city planned to form its own fire department, ACFD 5 asked voters within their district to approve a levy lid lift to offset lost revenue. The measure passed, raising the fire district levy to 90 cents per $1,000 in property value, up from 65 cents. City residents will pay this higher levy if annexation occurs. That’s significantly more than before.
