SOMERS — Somers residents voted down a permanent $1.3 million property tax increase Tuesday that would have hired eight new full-time firefighter-paramedics for the Somers Fire and Rescue Department.
The referendum failed with more than 60% of voters saying no. Final results showed 1,417 votes against the measure and 920 in favor.
WATCH: Somers voters reject $1.3 million tax increase for eight new firefighter-paramedics
The tax increase would have allowed the department to staff all three of its ambulances simultaneously around the clock. Right now, the Somers Fire and Rescue Department can only guarantee two ambulances are staffed and ready at any given time.
When a third is needed, the department relies on off-duty personnel coming in from home or mutual aid from neighboring departments.
Residents were split on the decision.
"Happy that there is a referendum and that we do have a chance to get out here and you know voice our opinion on it," said Amanda Little, a Somers resident who voted yes.
Others felt the cost was too high.
"It's just too much. Somers are spending way too much money," said Barbara and Jon, Somers residents who voted no.
Over the last ten years, calls for service have increased by 89%. In 2025 alone, the department responded to a record 1,778 calls — and 728 times, multiple emergencies were happening simultaneously.
For the average Somers homeowner with an assessed value of $355,000, an approved referendum would have meant an estimated $405 increase on their property tax bill starting in December 2026.
Tonight, the question of how to improve emergency response in Somers remains unanswered.
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