The Lake-County NewsSun recently published an article detailing the Antioch Fire Department's efforts to secure a tax levy in order to support emergency medical services (EMS) in the area. Facing a significant budget gap of nearly $800,000 for EMS, local officials from both the village and township are planning to put a 25-cent tax levy on the ballot in November. This move is aimed at ensuring consistent funding for ambulance services, which have been a growing concern for the community. Last month, Antioch Township officials also decided to include the same referendum question for voters in unincorporated areas of Antioch. If approved, this levy would result in an annual increase of $101.67 for homeowners with a property valued at $140,000, and $172.50 for those with a home worth $225,000, according to Village Administrator James Keim. He emphasized that securing this funding is essential for maintaining and improving emergency care in the region. Previously, EMS services in Antioch were provided by the not-for-profit Antioch Rescue Squad (ARS), which operated for over 72 years. However, as Nixon explained, this model was not sustainable in today’s financial climate. While ARS did not offer free services, they relied heavily on donations and benefactors to cover operational costs. Now, with the contract between ARS and the First Fire District set to end next month, the village and township are looking to transition to a more stable funding source. Starting in May, the village and township will collaborate under the leadership of Fire Chief John Nixon to streamline fire and ambulance services. The proposed tax levy is expected to generate around $1.6 million annually for EMS, which Nixon called a crucial element in making this joint effort successful. Keim added that even though the Rescue Squad once provided services, there was always some level of public funding involved. “There's a common misconception that tax dollars haven’t been used or that the ARS offered free care,” he said. “In reality, if residents want reliable and high-quality EMS, there needs to be a sustainable way to fund it.” He further noted that most communities in Lake County already use tax levies to support their emergency services, helping to keep EMS separate from general municipal budgets. “We're a bit behind in this regard, but we can't afford to stay in the past,” Keim said. “This referendum is about securing the future of our life safety services.”

Anti Scratch Thermal Lamination Film

Anti Scratch Thermal Lamination Film,Scratch-Proof Laminating Roll,Hard-Coat Thermal Laminate,Durable Protective Lamination Film

JIANGYIN HONGJU NEW MATERIALS CO.,LTD , https://www.hongjuspecialfilm.com