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Commissioners commit to charter resolution dedicating 1% sales tax to EMS if voters approve
Summary
The board voted 3–0 to commit to adopting a charter resolution that would, if voters approve a 1% county retail sales tax, dedicate those revenues exclusively to emergency medical services and create a segregated account for excess revenue; publication and petition rules under state law were discussed.
Commissioners reviewed and voted to commit to a charter resolution that would dedicate proceeds of a proposed 1% countywide retail sales tax exclusively to emergency medical services and rescue services if the electorate approves the tax.
The county counselor explained legal requirements and timelines, stating that a charter resolution must be adopted unanimously by the board and published in the Atchison Globe three consecutive weeks; within 30 days after the last publication, a petition signed by 2% of the electorate can force the measure to a November election. He also advised commissioners on how the resolution would exempt the county from specified provisions of Kansas law if adopted.
Commissioner Calhoun said committing in advance would reassure voters the revenue would be used only for EMS and noted the board discussed holding excess revenue in an interest‑bearing segregated account. Commissioner Campbell urged residents to get the word out and to vote. The motion to commit to the charter resolution (to be formally adopted after the election if the sales tax measure passes) carried 3–0.
