Council moves to renew EMS levy

CHENEY – At the City Council meeting held last Tuesday, April 23, city administrator Mark Schuller addressed the urgent need to renew the Emergency Medical Services (EMS) levy, which is set to expire this year. The resolution passed unanimously.

The current levy, in its sixth year, provides essential funding for emergency medical personnel, amounting to $0.50 per $1,000 assessed valuation. The proposed renewal Levy, if approved, will span from 2025 to 2030. The primary election to decide on this crucial measure is slated for August 6, with the deadline to submit the authorizing resolution set for May 3, 2024.

Schuller emphasized the critical nature of the levy renewal, stating, “This amounts to funding for two full firefighters or EMTs. With 72% of our calls being medical, we desperately need to have this funding. If we were to lose it, we’d need to make some very difficult decisions regarding personnel.”

Councilwoman Teresa Overhauser raised questions about the duration of the levy, asking if there was a specific number of years in mind.

In response, Schuller explained, “If we wanted to have it be ten years, we’d have to pass it with 60%. At six years, we only need over 50%.”

Highlighting the growing demand for emergency services, Schuller noted, “The fire chief keeps track of calls, and we’ve had a 19% increase in calls for service. The need is definitely increasing.”

Concerns were also raised about the adequacy of the proposed levy amount over time.

Schuller replied, “If we get three years in and find out 50 cents isn’t enough, we’d need to figure out alternative revenue sources.”

Following discussions, the motion to approve the renewal of the ballot proposition passed unanimously.