The first fire district in Asotin County
Clarkston, Washington In order to preserve and enhance emergency medical services in the community, Asotin County Fire District #1 is requesting that voters take into account lifting the EMS levy lid during the August 5 election.
According to district officials, the action is required to manage the growing number of calls and the rising expenses associated with delivering emergency medical services. Since the last EMS levy renewal in 2016, call volumes have increased by 50%, according to the district, while the cost of operations and equipment has increased due to inflation. For instance, fire engines now cost more than $1.2 million, and ambulances have increased in price from $200,000 to $300,000.
Because of state-imposed revenue constraints, the EMS levy rate has currently decreased to $0.36 per $1,000 of assessed property value. To bring the rate back to the initial $0.50 that voters authorized in 2016, the district is recommending a $0.14 increase. If approved, a $300,000 home’s owner would have to pay an estimated $3.50 a month, or $42 a year, for the lid lift.
In addition to enabling the district to replace two old ambulances, the proposed funds would boost manpower to manage an increase in EMS calls. Additionally, it would cover defibrillators, heart monitors, and other medical supplies.
Ninety percent of local emergency calls are for EMS, according to Asotin County Fire District #1. Regardless of fluctuations in property values, the fire district is still subject to a 1% annual revenue cap and receives funding independently from Asotin County.
By 8 p.m. on August 5, ballots must be submitted to an official drop box or postmarked. Drop boxes can be found at:
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Office of the Asotin County Auditor
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The Courthouse in Asotin County
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City Hall in Clarkston
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Lincoln Middle School
Office of the Asotin County Auditor
The Courthouse in Asotin County
City Hall in Clarkston
Lincoln Middle School
Residents can visit www.acfd1.org or email Chief Noel Hardin at 509-758-5181 [email protected] for additional information.
