Some county emergency responders may have to limit their capacity to protect lives and homes. That's according to proponents of the much debated Initiative 1A. Opponents argue that it's a bad time to raise the sales tax in El Paso County.

County Commissioners said if the one-cent sales tax doesn't pass, the wildland firefighting team is one of several county agencies that could have their budget slashed. The team helps cover hundreds of miles in El Paso County. While the firefighters volunteer for the work, their budget keeps them equipped and ready to respond.

"We've lost 18,306 acres so far this year and that's not including (Fort) Carson," said El Paso County Commander of Emergency Services Jim Reid. It was his volunteer firefighters from the county wildland crew who held the frontlines during several fires this year.

"I am worried. If we continue to build out east, homes and lives are at risk," said Reid. If the one-cent sales tax increase fails, Reid said he may not have the resources to fight fires.

"It takes the overall tax rate to unacceptable high levels. In the city, it’ll be more than 8 percent and almost 10 percent in Manitou Springs," said Senator Andrew McElhany. He is against the initiative, saying the timing is terrible, and it asks too much.

“The only good time to ask for a tax increase is when you know the need is there,” said El Paso County Commissioner Sallie Clark.