Skagit County: Learn About Proposed EMS Levy Increase

On Monday, March 12, 2018, the Skagit County Board of Commissioners approved a resolution calling for a public hearing to consider a proposition that would continue the Emergency Medical Services Levy. If approved, Skagit County Proposition 1 would appear on the August 2018 primary ballot. Click here to view the March 12th Board of Commisioners’ session.

The resolution considers an increase in the Emergency Medical Services levy rate from $.375 per $1,000 of assessed value, to $.44 per $1,000 of assessed value – an increase of roughly $17 more per year on a $262,000 home. The current EMS levy expires at the end of 2018. EMS Director Jeff Sargent had this to say of the proposed levy:

The cost of providing care goes up every year. Our population continues to grow – and age – and that adds cost, too. The new levy rate will help us maintain a high standard of care and ensure our system runs as efficiently as possible.

At a public meeting on Monday, April 9, 2018, EMS Director Jeff Sargent will provide information about the current EMS services provided to county residents, along with information about current provider budgets and calls for service. The meeting is set to begin at 10:00 AM on the 9th, at the Commissioner’s Hearing Room (1800 Continental Place, Mount Vernon).

For further questions or additional details, please contact Jeff Sargent at jsargent@co.skagit.wa.us or (360) 416-1830.