On Nov. 5, Guthrie County voters will decide on a proposal that could shape the future of the county’s emergency medical services (EMS). Public Measure IU asks voters to deem EMS an essential service in Guthrie County and add a new levy of $0.75 per $1,000 of taxable assessed valuation to fund EMS departments countywide. The measure requires support from 60 percent of voters to pass. The proposed levy would generate an estimated $750,000 to $800,000 annually with the goal of more coordinated EMS services across the county, which is currently served by Panora EMS, Stuart Rescue, and Adair Fire and Rescue. Supporters say the additional funding would allow the county to contract with these services, improve response times, and provide a sustainable funding mechanism. County officials emphasize that better funding could address delays in emergency response, particularly in western and northwestern parts of Guthrie County. If approved, officials plan to use some of the new funding to station an additional ambulance in Guthrie Center to reduce response times. An informational meeting will be held on Tuesday, Oct. 29, at 7 p.m. at the Guthrie County Courthouse for residents to learn more about the proposed levy. Voters can cast their ballots on Nov. 5 at polling stations across the county or vote absentee in person at the Guthrie County Auditor’s Office.
