Washington County Board of Supervisors

The Washington County Board of Supervisors meeting on August 13, 2026, included a detailed presentation and discussion on the county's six-year financial update and a significant proposal regarding the countywide Emergency Medical Services (EMS) system. The financial update highlighted a manageable budget gap of $1.3 million under current assumptions, revenue trends including property and sales taxes, and expenditure forecasts with attention to personnel costs and health insurance. The board discussed strategic priorities such as county land and building management, debt reduction opportunities, and the revolving loan fund nearing capacity. A major focus was the EMS funding proposal, which aims to establish a coordinated countywide EMS system funded by a $3.5 million levy dedicated solely to EMS services. The proposal was developed collaboratively with local fire chiefs, elected officials, and administrators to address increasing call volumes, volunteer shortages, and fiscal sustainability while preserving local control. The board engaged in extensive dialogue about levy impacts, local control versus consolidation, volunteer recruitment incentives, and the timeline for further public input and committee recommendations. The EMS levy would be integrated into the county's existing property tax levy, with detailed contract and funding flow to municipalities and departments to be finalized in upcoming meetings. No votes were recorded during this session, but the EMS proposal is expected to return for formal consideration in the fall. Additionally, the meeting included a brief introduction to a comprehensive plan amendment for land use in the Town of Jackson, which will be addressed separately.