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Arlington Heights adopts lift-assist ordinance to curb recurring nonemergency calls
Summary
Following a presentation by the fire chief citing repeated nonemergency lift-assist calls that tie up ambulance resources, trustees unanimously approved an ordinance that allows education and referrals and cost recovery for excessive recurring nonemergency lift-assist responses.
The Village Board unanimously approved a lift-assist ordinance May 18 after the Fire Chief described a growing number of recurring nonemergency calls that reduce availability for true emergencies.
Chief Harris told the board that in 2024 just 19 addresses accounted for nearly half of all lift-assist responses and that in early 2026 activity was trending up about 7% year-over-year. He said one address required assistance 25 consecutive days in February 2026 and another resident called 30 times over a two-month span.
Harris framed the proposed ordinance as a compassionate, case-by-case approach that follows Illinois legislative guidance allowing departments to recover costs after specified thresholds. "This proposal is about responsible management of emergency resources while continuing to support residents with dignity and compassion," he said. The plan calls for outreach, a first-notice letter, a Health & Human Services referral and case review before any billing.
Trustees debated threshold levels and whether facilities with on-site staff should receive the same allowances as private residences. The chief said thresholds can be adjusted and that the village's home-rule authority allows tailoring of the local program; he also said he has met with major facilities — including Luther Village and Luther Home — and described those meetings as receptive.
Trustee discussion focused on balancing compassion with operational readiness; trustees also emphasized that Health & Human Services will follow up with referrals to social services and equipment resources to reduce repeat calls.
The board voted to adopt the ordinance as presented; the chief and Health & Human Services will coordinate implementation, community education and individualized follow-up prior to any cost recovery.
