Emergency services discussed at meeting

Over 25 people were present at the Emergency Service District #1 meeting Jan. 23, 23 at the Falls Community Hospital Board Room with Wayne Young presiding. 

After discussing the options and pros/cons of the ambulatory services in Falls County, the group voted to offer a one-year contract to AMR insuring at least one ambulance in Falls County. 

It appears AMR is not interested in transports. It was understood that ESD #1 President Wayne Young would not sign the contract prior to meeting with ESD #2 and #3 who also met the same night at different locations. If in agreement, the cost will be $400,000 for one year at a $33,334 monthly rate. The monthly rates will be absorbed by the three ESDs: ESD #1 - $16,668 (50 percent), ESD #2 - $10,000 (30 percent) and ESD #3 - $6,666 (20 percent). 

All three ESDs would like from AMR accountability for the $400,000.

Marlin City Manager Cedric Davis introduced discussion of funding for Texas Rural Health Counties and agreed to the one-year contract which will buy ESD #1 time to seek and receive help from the state in addition to grant writing. ESD #1 utilizes the County attorney, however, currently Falls County does not have county attorney.

Kayci Nehring, Falls County Tax Assessor, explained a Special Election in May or November must take place when considering an increase in the Emergency Service District tax rate. Presently, the tax rate is .02338, approximately 3 cents on a $100 valuation. 

Young noted no one on this side of the river (ESD #1) pays 100 percent taxes. If a tax increase is considered, the group agreed on the importance of getting the information out to the community via Facebook, Instagram, public forums, local newspaper, and word of mouth.

On another note, Kayci Nehring, citizen, submitted an Open Records Request from the ESD #1 Board to include: Copy of 2021-22 Audit Report, 2022 Proof of Meeting Postings, Board Members Certificate of Required Workshops, 2021-22 Annual Reports, Financial Security Plan, and Treasure bonding. There was no response from President Young.

Minutes and Treasurer reports for November/December 2022 were shared. The ESD #1 December checking & saving accounts balance was $399,075.42. Tracy Dimerson expressed her desire to become a board member. With no further business, the meeting was adjourned.

The Rosebud News

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