CFPD Sales Tax Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why can't we depend on Grand Junction Fire Station 8 to provide coverage?
A: Grand Junction Fire Station 8 provides response in the overlap area with only an engine. Grand Junction Fire does not staff an ambulance at Station 8. The proposed satellite station would position a Clifton Fire ambulance in the southern portion of the district.
Q: How do I know my tax dollars are being spent on emergency services & fire protection in Clifton?
A: Clifton Fire is funded through a voter-approved mill levy that is legally restricted to fire and EMS. Clifton Fire's budget is public record and transparency and accountability are critical goals of the board. Clifton Fire is governed by a local Board of Directors elected by district residents.

Q: Why does the district need a satellite station?
A: Neighborhoods in the southern part of the district have high call volumes. A satellite station would allow the district to place an engine, ambulance and water-rescue boat closer to this dense, high call volume area, which will improve response times. Grand Junction Fire does not provide initial responses on the east side of 32 Road. This is solely CFPD responsibility.
Q: Why is 32 Road and D Road an ideal location for a fire substation in Clifton?
A: Clifton has about 3,409 residents per square mile, higher than nearby Palisade (2,381) and similar to Fruitvale (3,703). The proposed site sits in the busiest area of calls for service and still allows fast access to major routes like I‑70 (north) and US‑6 (F Road), ensuring quicker response times throughout the district.
Q: Why is the district considering a sales tax?
A: A sales tax ensures that the visitors and shoppers from outside the district help contribute to emergency services and reduce future burdens on property owners in the district. The sales tax cannot be applied to items such as groceries, feminine hygeine products, prescriptions, diapers, and all other categories exempt from state sales tax collections.
Q: Who decides how the money is spent?
A: Clifton Fire Protection District is governed by a locally elected Board of Directors. These board members live in the community, answer to the community, and make decisions with one priority in mind: providing fire and EMS services.
Q: How does the community benefit from an independent district?
A: Every tax dollar stays dedicated to fire and EMS services. Local residents—not a distant city council—decide how funds are used. Clifton Fire provides both fire protection and emergency medical services without any subsidy from the City, meaning Clifton residents aren’t paying for city priorities but still receive full fire/EMS coverage.
The mission is simple: to deliver the highest level of emergency protection for our community.
Q: How mich does a firefighter's gear actually cost?

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