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Study recommends county fire/EMS consolidation; councilors note new state sales‑tax option could fund district
Summary
A consultant study presented to the county recommends creating north and south fire districts; the report notes a recently enacted Utah option allowing certain counties to adopt a health‑care sales tax (up to 1%) and estimated that half the county—s share could cover the shortfall for a consolidated south district including Perry.
PERRY, Utah — Council members heard a presentation about a recent county‑commissioned study that recommends consolidating fire and emergency medical services into two county fire districts and cites a new state sales‑tax option as a potential funding source.
A councilmember summarized the consulting report, which examined call volumes, staffing, stations and finances across Box Elder County and recommended two districts (north and south). The report estimated the South Fire District—s FY26 recurring revenue from service charges and other recurring sources at roughly $2.17 million, with projected operating expenses around $5.5 million — a shortfall of about $3.4 million under the study—s staffing and service model.
The study noted that, effective May 1, 2024, state legislation enables certain counties to adopt a health‑care sales tax of up to 1% for EMS, search and rescue, and fire protection; the presenter said statewide estimates show the full 1% could generate about $11.8 million for the state estimate used in the report. Splitting a countywide adoption in half (simple illustrative math used in the discussion) would produce revenue roughly equal to the study—s estimated shortfall for the South district.
Council members and staff discussed the mechanics and next steps: the sales‑tax route would require county action and a voter approval process; the consultant advised extensive stakeholder outreach and a phased approach. The report emphasized service‑level outcomes (response times, staffing, station location) as the primary goal rather than cost savings, although some economies of scale are possible.
Councilors suggested initial local conversations with Brigham City, Willard and county commissioners and asked to better understand legal and ballot mechanics; no formal action was taken. The councilmember who presented said the sales‑tax approach could shift funding from property taxes to a broader sales‑tax base, and he recommended pursuing initial stakeholder conversations.
Ending: Council members asked staff to share the study and discuss stakeholder outreach and options with county officials; no final decision was taken at the work session.
