IOLA — Allen County residents can learn more about a proposed half-cent sales tax for emergency medical services during an informational meeting Thursday, Oct. 22, at 6:30 p.m. at the Community Building in Riverside Park.
The meeting will include a presentation about the proposal, followed by a question-and-answer session led by Allen County Commissioner David Lee. It is part of a series of community discussions intended to explain the ballot measure before the Nov. 3 election.
The proposed tax would generate an estimated $1.3 million annually for county ambulance operations. If approved, it would take effect in April 2027 and remain in place for five years unless voters approve an extension.
Approval would increase the county sales tax rate from 1.25% to 1.75%, bringing Iola’s combined sales tax rate from 8.75% to 9.25%.
The additional revenue could reduce the county’s reliance on property taxes to support EMS, although commissioners have not committed to a specific reduction. Any property tax changes would not take effect until the 2028 budget cycle.
