Bothell Voters Overwhelmingly Approve Joining Shoreline Regional Fire Authority

Bothell voters have given strong support to joining the Shoreline Regional Fire Authority (RFA), with initial unofficial election results showing 83.5% voting in favor of Proposition 1.

The measure authorizes Bothell's annexation into the Shoreline Fire Department Regional Fire Authority, effective March 1, 2027. Election results remain unofficial until formally certified.

“We are grateful for the trust Bothell voters have placed in us,” said Fire Chief Matt Cowan. “This decision strengthens the foundation for fire and emergency medical services in Bothell and builds on the partnership our departments already share.”

The RFA was established in 2025 to serve Shoreline, Kenmore, Lake Forest Park and Woodway, building on partnerships among the communities that date back decades. Bothell's annexation will bring its fire department into the regional organization.

According to the RFA, regional consolidation is intended to support long-term financial and operational sustainability while maintaining current levels of fire and emergency medical services.

What changes for Bothell residents?

Under the proposed transition:

• Bothell fire stations will remain open and staffed.
• Emergency responses will continue to be dispatched from the closest available units.
• Bothell will have representation on the RFA's governing board.
• Bothell firefighters and other department employees will join the regional organization.

The RFA and City of Bothell will coordinate the transition over the coming months and provide updates to residents and employees as implementation proceeds.

“I want to thank everyone who asked questions, attended meetings, and voted,” Cowan said. “I also want to recognize our Firefighters and employees for the excellent service that earns our residents’ confidence every day. We look forward to welcoming Bothell’s Firefighters and staff into the RFA.”

Regional implications

Bothell's approval expands the regional fire authority beyond its original service area of Shoreline, Kenmore, Lake Forest Park and Woodway.

For Lake Forest Park residents, the change adds another city to the regional organization responsible for fire protection and emergency medical services. The RFA has described regional consolidation as a way to strengthen financial and operational sustainability while maintaining existing service levels.

The annexation is scheduled to take effect March 1, 2027, subject to certification of the election results and completion of the transition.

More information about the proposal and Bothell's fire service review is available from the City of Bothell:

https://bothellwa.gov/2209/FIRE-SERVICE-STUDY

More News from Lake Forest Park

• Shoreline Fire Authority Proposes $69.6 Million Budget and Higher Fire Benefit Charge for 2027 The changes would increase the equivalent levy rate from about $1.05 to $1.19 per $1,000 of assessed value.
• LFP Prop 1 Passing .