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Commissioners hear mixed reaction to proposed county sales-tax to support EMS, airport and transit
Summary
A citizensgroup urged a 0.75% county sales-tax ballot measure prioritizing ambulance services, ground transportation and commercial air service; commissioners discussed whether to place the measure on the primary or general election and flagged statutory requirements for municipal support and transparency about allocations.
A community group presented a proposed countywide 0.75% sales-tax initiative intended to fund emergency medical services (EMS), ground transportation and commercial air service, and commissioners held an extended policy discussion about timing, statutory thresholds and transparency.
Proponents told the board their priority is stabilizing ambulance services in Fremont County; they proposed either three ballot questions or a single question that would allow voters to select funding priorities. The group favored placing the measure on the general election ballot to reach more voters; commissioners and treasurer staff noted statutory rules that can require different thresholds depending on whether the measure is framed as an economic-development sales tax or a countywide general sales tax and whether a majority of municipalities (50%) support it.
Commissioners and the county attorney raised several practical questions: whether municipalities had approved similar resolutions (Riverton, Lander and Hudson had voted in favor according to one commissioner), whether the county could rescind an earlier resolution and move the question to the general election, and who would make allocation decisions if the tax passes. The treasurer said Department of Revenue guidance is needed to confirm timing and legal thresholds; county staff will consult the county attorney and may convene a special meeting with municipal officials to clarify options.
Several commissioners pressed for clearer, firmer language on how funds would be allocated among EMS, airport and transit to avoid perceptions of a vague "as needed" spending clause. Commissioners favor an information session and a tighter set of ballot options to present to voters.
