EMS declared essential in Guthrie County, paving way for future vote
The Guthrie County Board of Supervisors on Tuesday declared emergency medical services an essential service, a step aimed at creating uniform EMS coverage countywide.
The vote was 4-1.
Supervisors J.D. Kuster, Brian Johnson and Steve Smith joined Supervisor Maggie Armstrong in support. Supervisor Mike Dickson was the lone no vote.
“Resolution passes,” board chair Armstrong announced after the roll call vote.
The earliest the question could go to county voters in a special election is March 2026, officials said.
Backers expect a different outcome than last year, when a similar measure did not pass.
“Last year, EMS in Guthrie County went to a vote, and it did not pass. I don’t say it failed. It just didn’t pass,” Armstrong said. “So now, we’re going to take up the position again.”
Armstrong said she will watch the Iowa Legislature closely, hoping two bills introduced last year resurface — one to make EMS tax-increment financing exempt and another to make EMS essential statewide.
“Once the legislative session is over, then there is a potential for us to go ahead and put it back on the ballot,” she said.
Guthrie Center City Administrator Kris Arrasmith praised the designation.
“I think that’s fantastic,” Arrasmith said. “I do think it’s a good thing for our community, for our citizens.”
Arrasmith said the need is clear because time is critical in emergencies.
“I hope that we can come to the table and everybody can agree that we can get something done that would allow for a timely appearance by an ambulance and an ambulance crew,” Arrasmith said.
Watch: Iowa EMS Association hosts conference as counties work to make service essential
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