Ballots due on Tuesday in Spokane EMS levy election

Tuesday is the deadline to return ballots containing a renewal of a long-running emergency medical services levy in Spokane.

The levy generates about $8 million annually for the Spokane Fire Department, which has an annual overall budget of nearly $50 million.

The levy was first approved in 1980 and it has been renewed every six years since, but it’s set to expire at the end of the year. The levy’s funds go toward advanced life support services performed by paramedics, operational costs, medical supplies, equipment and administrative oversight.

If passed by voters, the levy rate will remain the same at 50 cents per $1,000 of property value.

Ballots need to be postmarked by Tuesday or returned at Spokane County election drop boxes, including at Spokane Public Libaries and the Spokane Transit Authority Plaza, by 8 p.m. Tuesday night to be counted. For more information visit www.SpokaneCounty.org/elections.