MILLS COUNTY, Iowa — Mills County supervisors approved the final reading of a resolution declaring EMS an essential service, allowing the board to appoint an EMS Advisory Council and place a countywide EMS tax levy on the November ballot.
The proposal will require 60% voter approval and could include a property tax levy of up to 75 cents per $1,000 in valuation or a 1% income surtax, The Opinion-Tribune reported.
“We have come to the point where we still have the same people in EMS having a lot of difficulty getting volunteers to step forward,” County Supervisor Richard Crouch said. “I think it is very important we get this passed.”
The advisory council will recommend what EMS services are needed in the county and advise on the referendum’s language and funding amount.
If voters approve the levy, the council will also oversee how the funds are allocated.
