Sammamish Council Considers EMS Levy Adjustments Amid Population Growth

In a recent council meeting in Sammamish, the EMS Advisory Task Force presented its recommendations for an upcoming EMS levy aimed at enhancing emergency medical services in King County, especially for areas outside Seattle. The proposed levy rate will start at 25 cents, expected to generate over $1. 5 billion within six years, with approximately $919 million earmarked for King County. Homeowners may see costs rise from about $159 to an estimated $212 annually, based on increasing median home prices. Key elements of the proposal include maintaining the advanced life support (ALS) allocation and adding units to manage the growing call volume.

The task force stressed the importance of equitable service delivery across diverse communities and proposed increased funding for basic life support and mobile health programs. As the council prepares to vote in May, they aim to balance the financial burden on homeowners with the critical demands of effective emergency services. Community engagement will be key in shaping these recommendations and ensuring the needs of all residents are met. The outcomes of this discussion will significantly influence the future of emergency medical care in King County.