URGENT UPDATE: The Clarkston City Council voted unanimously, 7-0, on Monday night to secure funding for emergency medical services (EMS) for the next nine months. This crucial decision comes after the EMS levy failed in November, leaving the city’s medical services at risk.
City officials are now preparing to propose a new levy for voter approval in August to ensure uninterrupted services through September 2026. Councilor Skate Pierce warned that the city’s financial reserves will take a significant hit to maintain EMS operations. He emphasized that the upcoming ballot proposal will be more reasonable than the one that was previously rejected.
This failure marks the first time an EMS levy has failed in Clarkston, prompting a community outcry. Recent council meetings have witnessed packed attendance with residents advocating for the preservation of EMS services. Councilor Russ Evans cautioned that an excessive levy proposal could lead to further rejection, stating, “Asking property owners to fund a champagne appetite on a beer budget isn’t affordable for many Clarkston residents.”
Fire Chief Darren White confirmed that EMS operations are crucial to covering costs, yet some expenses have been shifted to the fire department budget to facilitate this nine-month plan. Despite ongoing contract negotiations with the professional firefighters union, Chief White assured that four previously notified employees will retain their jobs. He expressed optimism for an agreement to be reached soon.
Councilor Robin Albers highlighted that the city spends approximately $130,000 monthly for the wages and benefits of paramedics and firefighters, stressing the need for more detailed budget and revenue information as the city prepares for the next levy attempt. Councilor Pierce noted that around 70% of the city’s budget is allocated to personnel costs, indicating a lean operation that has been severely impacted by the EMS levy failure.
Mayor Monika Lawrence pointed out that Clarkston’s primary revenue comes from sales taxes, stating that without major retailers like Costco and Walmart, the city’s financial situation would be dire. Many properties in the city, including churches and government buildings, are tax-exempt, resulting in limited property tax revenue compared to other municipalities.
“Small cities across the state are struggling with inflation, rising insurance costs, and the need to cover cost-of-living wage increases every year,” Mayor Lawrence added. Clerk Rachel Frost mentioned that more concrete 2026 financial figures will be available once the union agreement is finalized.
In related city business, Councilor David Vinton was presented with a plaque in recognition of his service since 2021. Vinton announced his resignation in November to focus on family, with his last day as a city official set for December 31. At that time, the city will have 90 days to appoint a replacement. Vinton expressed gratitude for his time in office, reflecting on the intense discussions surrounding the area’s unhoused population and city parks that have marked his tenure.
As the Clarkston community rallies behind EMS services, the council’s decision today highlights ongoing struggles in city governance and the urgent need for sustainable solutions. Residents are urged to stay informed as the next levy proposal approaches, and the impact of these developments will resonate throughout the community.
