WHATCOM COUNTY, Wash. – Funding for Whatcom County’s EMS agencies are suddenly in question after the County Council voted to change some requirements.
An EMS levy was planned to go onto this November’s ballot that would fund the emergency services over the next six years through a property tax.
After a meeting last week, the County Council voted to reduce the levy by 33% and also add a requirement for EMS services to promote diversity in its hiring and recruitment.
It’s a move Bellingham Fire Chief Bill Hewet calls a game changer.
He says there might not be time to address the necessary changes to get the levy on this years ballot.
Cascadia Daily reports the levy is not yet finalized and EMS officials will have time to argue their case at the next Count Council meeting on Tuesday, July 12th.