Public Education Effort Begins on Benton County EMS Issue

The Benton County Quorum Court is beginning its public education effort to inform voters about the two Emergency Medical Services (EMS) funding issues that will be on the ballot in November.

As you may recall, one proposal would impose a 2/10% millage tax on all real and personal property in Benton County (including businesses) to fund ambulance service in the rural areas.  This new tax will be on the ballot across all of Benton County.

The second proposal would impose a $40 per household fee on unincorporated homes only.  This proposal will be on the ballot in unincorporated areas of Benton County.  If you live in one of the incorporated cities or towns in Benton County, you will not have this proposal on your ballot.

Click here for the actual language of the two ballot proposals.

Below are the town hall dates that have been scheduled thus far to disseminate information to voters.  I expect other dates to be scheduled and that this issue will receive more media attention as election day draws near.

• Sept 20th, 9:00 am (Centerton): Coffee with the Mayor of Centerton, Centerton City Hall, 290 Main St., Centerton
• Oct 6th, 6:30 pm (Highfill): Highfill City Hall, Hwy 102, Highfill
• Oct 16th, 6:00 pm (Bentonville): Benton County Courthouse Main Courtroom, 100 NW A St., Bentonville
• Oct 20th, 6:00 pm (Siloam Springs): Siloam Springs Community Building, 110 North Mt. Olive, Siloam Springs
• Oct 24th, 6:00 pm (Gravette): Bill V. Hall Senior Services, 1870 Limekin Road, Gravette
• Oct 30th, 6:30 pm (Centerton): Centerton City Hall, 290 Main St., Centerton

I'll do my best to keep everyone informed of additional town halls as they are scheduled.  I'll also disseminate any other information I receive.

As always, please don't hesitate to send me your questions and comments.  I like hearing from you!

Best,

Barry