Clarkston (WA) Looks Ahead After EMS Levy Fails at the Ballot Box

Clarkston (WA) Looks Ahead After EMS Levy Fails at the Ballot Box

Sanders Kennedy

November 6, 2025

https://klewtv.com/news/local/clarkston-looks-ahead-after-ems-levy-fails-at-the-ballot-box

Clarkston, WA – Clarkston voters on Tuesday rejected a proposed emergency medical services levy that city officials say is crucial to keeping the community’s ambulance program running past next year.

The measure needed 60% voter approval to pass but received just 42% “yes” votes, according to preliminary election results.

The proposal would have increased the city’s EMS levy rate from $1.50 per $1,000 of assessed property value in 2025 to $2.64 in 2026 — roughly a 76% jump.

With the levy failing to pass, the EMS service could end in 2026.

“The current tax dollars will cover the department through the end of the year,” said Fire Chief Darren White. “And there is reserve set aside in the EMS budget that could possibly be carried over into 2026.”

White said the department is already preparing for budget discussions and next steps.

“We are in the process of budgeting for 2026,” he said. “We’re meeting Monday night at a normal council meeting, and we do plan to have at least a workshop or something to discuss future plans for what services we’ll be providing.”

If funding does not improve, up to six of the department’s 13 full-time employees could lose their jobs, White said.

“That would come through talks with city council,” he added. “The ultimate decision on the future relies on them.”

Despite the setback, White remains hopeful voters will reconsider next year.