Commissioner DIscuss Funding EMS

Commissioner Scott Hilton brought the discussion of Emergency Medical Services in Osage County to the table Monday morning. Hilton continued the discussion of finding a means to fund EMS either through the existing Health Department tax measure, which was passed in 2006, or through an additional tax subsidy.


The Osage County District Attorney's Office has looked over the existing Heath Department tax and determined an amendment would need to be added in order to use the funds for EMS, the amendment would need to be approved through a vote by the people.


The Commissioners stated they would support an amendment to the existing Health Department tax but only if it does not impede funding for the Health Department. The Commissioner would like to avoid adding another quarter cent tax to help fund medical services, but it is a viable option.


The reason for the EMS discussion Monday morning was the recent vacancy left in the 911 coverage area when Eagle Medical Transport left the Barnsdall – Avant area.