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Council discusses possible tax allocation to support Hollidaysburg ambulance service during budget planning
Summary
Council members and the ambulance association discussed options to fund the local ambulance service, including a possible tax mill increase to be considered during upcoming budget meetings.
Mayor Joe Dodson urged council to consider setting aside annual funds for the Hollidaysburg Area Ambulance Association, arguing that losing the local ambulance would be costly and unsafe. “These people work, save lives. They’re right there for us. So I would encourage you to vote for that, please,” Dodson said.
Council members agreed this is a budget issue that requires more information; they directed staff to include the topic in fall budget discussions. Council noted the borough can increase certain levies by up to 0.5 mills without a referendum and up to 2 mills with a referendum, but said the council needs data on the ambulance service footprint and current revenues before making a decision.
Nicole (ambulance association) told council the service’s revenue mix is largely membership drives, insurance reimbursements and donations; reimbursements have been shrinking and operating costs are rising. Paramedic Jay Ryan said operating a 24/7 crew is increasingly expensive; he estimated historical per‑crew readiness costs at $150,000–$200,000 and said current 2025 estimates are around $500,000 per crew.
Council asked the ambulance association to provide more detail on the service area and the share of runs in Hollidaysburg so borough staff can pursue cost‑sharing with neighboring municipalities that benefit from calls. Councilmembers agreed to vet the idea during the borough’s upcoming budget meetings rather than take immediate action.
