UPDATE: The Clarkston City Council has just approved emergency medical services funding for the next nine months in a unanimous 7-0 vote, addressing an urgent funding crisis after the EMS levy failed in November. This critical decision ensures that essential medical services will continue through September 2024 as city officials prepare to propose a new levy to voters in August.
In a heated council meeting on December 11, 2023, Councilor Skate Pierce warned that using city reserves to maintain EMS operations will have a significant financial impact. “The next ballot proposal will be more reasonable than the one that failed last month,” he stated, emphasizing the need for community support after the unprecedented defeat of the EMS levy.
The ramifications of this funding decision are profound, as the city grapples with rising operational costs and declining revenues. Councilor Russ Evans cautioned against proposing an exorbitant levy, stating, “Asking property owners to fund a champagne appetite on a beer budget isn’t affordable for many Clarkston residents.”
Fire Chief Darren White confirmed that ambulance transports and medical services help offset costs but acknowledged that some expenses have been shifted to the fire department budget to facilitate this urgent nine-month plan. Despite earlier notifications of layoffs, White assured that the four affected employees will retain their positions, with a new contract expected soon.
Councilor Robin Albers reported that the city spends approximately $130,000 monthly on paramedic and firefighter wages and benefits. She called for more comprehensive budget information as preparations for the upcoming levy request intensify to maintain the current staffing levels at the fire station.
The financial strain on Clarkston has been exacerbated by limited revenue sources, primarily reliant on sales taxes. Mayor Monika Lawrence highlighted the dire situation without major retailers like Costco and Walmart, noting that many properties, including churches and government buildings, are tax-exempt. “We provide a lot of services, and that costs money,” she said, underscoring the challenges faced by small cities amid rising inflation and insurance costs.
As the council navigates these financial hurdles, Clerk Rachel Frost confirmed that more solid budget figures for 2026 will be available once the union agreement is finalized.
In other city business, Councilor David Vinton received a plaque of appreciation for his service since 2021. Vinton, who announced his resignation effective December 31, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve and acknowledged the unique challenges faced in local governance. “The meetings about the area’s unhoused population and city parks were among the most memorable,” he shared.
As Clarkston moves forward, the council’s focus remains on securing essential services while addressing community needs. The upcoming months will be critical as they seek voter support for the new EMS levy and work towards stabilizing the city’s financial future.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.
