Local opinion: Police, firefighters proudly support Prop 414

and analysis of the writers:

Tucson has always been a community that comes together during challenging times, showing resilience, determination, and compassion. As leaders representing Tucson’s firefighters and police officers, we are calling on our fellow Tucsonans to come together once again by voting yes on Proposition 414 this March. This investment means better, faster, safer service for Tucsonans.

As Presidents of the Tucson Fire Fighters Association and the Tucson Police Officers Association, we proudly represent the dedicated public safety professionals who serve and protect our city every day. The Tucson Fire Fighters Association represents over 600 uniformed firefighters who responded to more than 105,000 emergency calls last year, demonstrating their unwavering commitment to our community. Meanwhile, the Tucson Police Officers Association represents the law enforcement officers, detectives, sergeants, and community safety officers who work tirelessly to keep our neighborhoods safe. Together, we stand united in our mission to protect and serve Tucson.

Our city is facing significant challenges, from rising emergency call volumes and violent crime to a lack of affordable housing and mental health services. At the same time, the state has significantly reduced our shared revenue, impacting service delivery, facilities, and vital equipment. These crises require immediate attention, and Proposition 414 provides the solution we need to move forward.

Prop 414 is a bold, visionary investment in Tucson’s future that we support 100%. By enacting a half-cent sales tax increase, it will generate $800 million over 10 years to address critical needs, including public safety, affordable housing, emergency response, and community resilience. For the Tucson Fire Department, this means expanded staffing, safer gear, a northwest infill station, additional ladder teams and faster service across the city. For the Tucson Police Department, it means hiring more officers, community service officers, and professional staff investigators. It also means ensuring we have the necessary patrol cars, computers, technical support, and funding to repair critically failing police and fire infrastructure.

But Prop 414 is about more than just public safety — it’s about building a stronger, more vibrant Tucson for everyone. The measure will fund early childhood education, workforce development, and programs designed to break the cycle of poverty, ensuring a brighter future for our community. Importantly, the Safe & Vibrant City: Tax Oversight Commission will ensure full transparency, guaranteeing that every dollar is spent wisely and effectively.

Tucsonans have a history of supporting smart, strategic investments in our city, as seen with Props 101, 407, and 411. Now, we have another opportunity to continue that legacy by passing Prop 414. This is our chance to make real, lasting improvements that will enhance public safety, support essential community programs, and secure Tucson’s future.

We urge you to vote yes on Prop 414 this March. Help us support the firefighters, police officers, 911 operators, and community programs that work every day to keep Tucson safe and thriving. Together, we can create a safer, more resilient, and vibrant city for generations to come.