KATY, TX (Covering Katy News) - Katy, Harris County residents have approved a tax increase that will benefit the Emergency Services District 48 Fire Department.
With 100 percent of the vote counted, Proposition A passed with 67 percent of the vote.
“We are humbled by the overwhelming voter support from our community, said Fire Chief George McAteer. The additional revenue will allow us to add a 6th ambulance with the goal of keeping response times down. Our citizens are best served by rapid emergency response."
Those who live within HCESD 48's territory will pay an additional $13.09 per $100,000 on their home, meaning that a home valued at $300,000 will pay no more than an additional $40 per year.
Harris County ESD 48 says funds will provide revenue for advanced life support and ambulance transport services and offset the costs of fire protection services. These costs include:
- Paying firefighter personnel
- Firefighter gear
- Paramedics and other EMS personnel
- Professional training
- Apparatuses (ambulances, firetrucks, boosters, rescue boats, and support vehicles)
- Medical equipment
- Facilities
- Community outreach and education
- Administration
- Other support services