Collin County proposes Emergency Services District to address rising fire service demands

During the Prosper Town Council meeting on May 13, 2025, a significant discussion centered around the proposed establishment of the Collin County Emergency Services District (ESD) number 1. This initiative arises from the increasing demand for emergency fire and EMS services in Collin County, driven by rapid population growth and rising operational costs for fire departments.

Chief Blassingame provided a detailed overview of the funding challenges faced by local fire departments, which have remained stagnant at approximately $1 million annually for over 15 years. This funding has not kept pace with inflation or the rising costs of equipment and personnel, leading to a critical situation where fire departments are expected to manage more emergency calls without additional financial support. The situation escalated when the city of Melissa announced it would cease responding to emergency calls in unincorporated areas, prompting other municipalities to consider similar actions.

The proposed ESD aims to levy taxes on unincorporated areas to fund emergency services, including fire and EMS. Municipalities must consent to include their extraterritorial jurisdictions (ETJs) in the ESD, with a deadline for responses set at 60 days from notification. If a municipality opts out, residents in those areas would lose the right to vote on the ESD initiative in the upcoming November election, and the county would no longer provide emergency services there.

As of the meeting, several towns had already opted in, while others, including Prosper, remained undecided. The council discussed the implications of this decision, noting that if the ESD is approved, it could significantly impact funding and service delivery for emergency response in the region.

The meeting also highlighted the need for a public hearing scheduled for July, where further details about the ESD's tax rate and its potential impact on residents will be discussed. The council's decision on whether to consent to the ESD will play a crucial role in shaping the future of emergency services in Prosper and surrounding areas. As the deadline approaches, the council and community members will need to weigh the benefits of improved funding against the implications of increased taxation.