Supervisors discuss EMS advisory tax, volunteer shortages and countywide emergency coverage

Supervisors said emergency medical services (EMS) and volunteer-rescue staffing are a county priority and discussed asking voters to approve an EMS advisory tax to increase funding. One supervisor summarized the challenge: the county would be “asking the people to increase their taxes but for a specific purpose ... mainly it is to save lives,” framing the measure as targeted funding for emergency coverage.

Multiple supervisors stressed recruitment and retention challenges for volunteer fire and rescue squads and the need for a clear plan if a tax measure goes to voters. Supervisors asked that the EMS advisory council present firm plans and that staff identify how additional revenue would be spent and how it would improve response times and equipment in underserved parts of the county.