The City of Palos Verdes Estates contracts with Los Angeles County for fire suppression and paramedic services. The existing contract between the City and County started in 1986, following voter approval of Proposition 13 (in 1978) that limited the growth of property taxes necessary to maintain an in-house City Fire Department.

 

To cover the cost of fire suppression and paramedic services, Palos Verdes Estates voters have repeatedly approved a special parcel tax. Revenue from the special parcel tax is maintained in a Fund exclusively dedicated to paying the cost of the contract with Los Angeles County. The existing special parcel tax expires in June 2017, and a ballot measure to continue the existing special parcel tax failed during the General Municipal Election on March 7, 2017. For more information, please visit FY 2017-18 Budget Shortfall.