Tue Sep 10 14:58:00 UTC 2024: ## Muskogee County Considers Countywide Sales Tax for Joint Emergency Services
Muskogee County is on the path to potentially funding joint emergency, fire, and law enforcement services with a proposed countywide sales tax. The Muskogee County EMS is aiming for a January election on the measure, which would levy a 0.849 cent sales tax across the county.
The proposed tax would fund shared facilities, vehicles, and equipment for Muskogee, Fort Gibson, Haskell, and Warner. A key benefit of the tax is the promise of free emergency runs for all residents, particularly those who may struggle financially.
The proposal has drawn support from Muskogee Mayor Patrick Cale, who sees it as an opportunity to address the city’s pressing need for a new police station and replacement for the York Street fire station. These projects were initially planned to be funded by a city bond issue that was ultimately canceled.
Cale suggests the city should focus its efforts on promoting the countywide sales tax and then proceed with developing its own bond issue proposals for remaining city needs. If the county tax fails, the city could incorporate police and fire funding into its own sales tax proposals.
Muskogee residents, like Michael Gragg, are urging the city council to take a measured approach and consider all options carefully, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing the citizens’ interests.
The Muskogee City Council has scheduled a separate election date for any city-specific proposals, ensuring that the focus remains on the countywide sales tax for now. The County Commissioners must approve the election call by November 14th to ensure a January election date.
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