Streator council approves ordinance to charge lift-assist fees for certain emergency calls

The Streator City Council voted to adopt Ordinance 2026-01 adding lift-assist fees to the municipal code for specified emergency responses. The measure, moved and seconded by council members during the meeting, authorizes a $30 vehicle charge for fire department lift-assists to senior-care facilities and nursing homes, with staff noting state statute permits six occurrences per year before a fee may be assessed.

Fire Department leadership told the council the fee is intended to recover costs for non-injury calls and discourage repeat non-emergency requests. "What we're looking to do is the fire department is looking to charge lift assist to senior care facilities, nursing homes," the presenter said, adding the $30 vehicle charge is "pretty reasonable for starting out." Council discussed enforcement and the risk some facilities might route patients to an emergency department to avoid fees; the chief said personnel would assess whether a patient is injured and willing to be transported.

Councilmembers asked about loopholes and repeat offenders. The presenter noted the number of occurrences has dropped since the statute took effect, and members suggested progressive penalties for violations, including fines and permit revocation in extreme cases. The clerk called the roll for the ordinance vote; recorded votes were all in favor.

The ordinance was approved; the city will proceed with implementation details and enforcement guidelines as staff refines administrative procedures and fee collection.