The Lake-County NewsSun recently published an article detailing the Antioch Fire Department's efforts to secure a tax levy in order to support its emergency medical services (EMS) operations. Facing a significant budget gap of nearly $800,000, officials from the village of Antioch are planning to ask voters to approve a 25-cent tax levy in November. This move comes as part of a broader strategy to ensure stable and reliable EMS services for the community.
In addition to the village, Antioch Township officials have also agreed to put the same referendum before unincorporated residents of Antioch. If passed, the tax increase would result in additional annual costs for homeowners. For example, a home valued at $140,000 would see an extra $101.67 in taxes, while a property worth $225,000 would incur an extra $172.50 per year. Village Administrator James Keim emphasized that this levy is essential to cover the reimbursement shortfall for ambulance services, which have been a critical component of emergency care in the area.
Until last year, the Antioch Rescue Squad (ARS), a nonprofit organization, provided ambulance services to the village. However, the current model is no longer sustainable, according to Fire Chief John Nixon. He explained that while ARS never offered free service, it relied heavily on donations and benefactors to cover operational costs. “That model isn’t viable anymore,†Nixon said. “We need a more stable funding source to ensure high-quality EMS without relying on unpredictable donations.â€
The Antioch Fire Department serves both the village and the surrounding township, but ambulance services have historically been contracted separately for each area. The First Fire District, which will be ending its contract with ARS next month, currently oversees ambulance services in the unincorporated parts of Antioch. Starting in May, the village and township will begin working together under Fire Chief Nixon’s leadership to coordinate both fire and ambulance services more efficiently.
Nixon called the proposed tax levy a crucial element in the success of this new joint operation. He estimates that the levy could generate around $1.6 million annually for EMS services across the village and the First Fire District. “This referendum is about securing a stable revenue stream for ambulance services,†he said. “It’s not just about covering costs—it’s about ensuring we can continue to provide life-saving care without financial strain.â€
Keim added that even when the Rescue Squad was providing ambulance services, some level of tax funding was already involved. “There’s a common misconception that tax dollars haven’t been used or that the ARS provided free service,†he said. “But the reality is that most communities fund their EMS through tax levies, and it’s time we catch up.†He stressed that adopting a tax-based funding model would take EMS out of competition with other general municipal expenses, allowing for more consistent and reliable service.
With the upcoming vote, Antioch officials are hoping to gain public support for a more sustainable approach to emergency services. While the economic climate remains challenging, they argue that long-term stability is necessary to avoid future debt and ensure continued access to quality EMS. The outcome of the referendum could mark a major shift in how the community supports its first responders.
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