UPDATE: The Clarkston City Council has just voted unanimously, 7-0, to fund emergency medical services (EMS) for the next nine months, ensuring critical services remain operational through September 2024. This urgent decision comes after a failed levy in November left EMS funding in jeopardy.
Officials are now mobilizing to request voter support for a new levy in August, which is pivotal for maintaining these essential services. Councilor Skate Pierce warned that the city’s reserves will take a significant hit to sustain EMS, emphasizing the need for a more reasonable proposal than the one that failed in the last election.
It marks the first time an EMS levy has failed in Clarkston, prompting officials to seek immediate solutions to address the budget shortfall. In recent weeks, council meetings have seen packed audiences advocating for EMS funding. Councilor Russ Evans cautioned against proposing an exorbitant levy, stating, “Asking property owners to fund a champagne appetite on a beer budget isn’t affordable for many Clarkston residents.”
Fire Chief Darren White highlighted that ambulance transports and medical services help cover operational costs, but some expenses have been transferred to the fire department budget to facilitate the nine-month funding plan. Despite a lack of contract between the city and the professional firefighters union, White confirmed that four employees previously notified of layoffs will retain their positions.
Councilor Robin Albers noted that the city spends approximately $130,000 monthly on wages and benefits for paramedics and firefighters. She has requested more detailed financial information as the city prepares for another levy initiative aimed at preserving the 13 staff members at the fire station.
“About 70% of the city’s budget is allocated to personnel costs,” Pierce stated, highlighting the tight financial constraints facing Clarkston. The failure of the EMS levy has created a significant challenge for the city, which relies heavily on sales taxes for revenue. Mayor Monika Lawrence remarked, “Without Costco and Walmart, Clarkston would be in dire straits,” stressing the limited income from property taxes due to numerous tax-exempt properties within city limits.
The mayor also pointed out the broader challenges faced by small cities across the state, including inflation and rising insurance costs, which exacerbate the struggle to meet annual cost-of-living wage increases. “We provide a lot of services, and that costs money,” she added.
The council is also dealing with administrative changes, as Councilor David Vinton prepares to resign on December 31, 2023, to focus on family. Vinton expressed gratitude for his time in office, stating, “It was an honor to serve the city,” and reflected on the engaging discussions during council meetings.
With the union agreement expected to finalize soon, Clerk Rachel Frost assured residents that more solid budget numbers for 2026 will be provided shortly. As Clarkston faces these urgent financial hurdles, its residents and officials remain focused on ensuring vital services are preserved.
