Tax For EMS Service in Lafayette County Draws Criticism

Lafayette County officials have tabled a conversation about county emergency medical services after a heated public meeting at which residents accused officials of poor planning and financial irresponsibility. A time and date for another meeting has not been set. The Lafayette County EMS Committee had hoped to pass a resolution clarifying the role and services of Lafayette County EMS after a recent countywide tax drew upset residents who were taxed for the service but do not live in areas covered by the department. The proposed resolution stated that the county’s EMS service is available to all residents either because they live in its primary service area, because it is available to them via mutual aid agreements or because the department can respond to calls anywhere in the county upon request. The countywide tax has drawn criticism from several area municipalities who felt it was unfair for cities and villages who are staffing and supporting their own volunteer services. The paid Lafayette County EMS covers the City of Darlington and a few surrounding townships, and responds as requested to other area emergencies. The Village of Blanchardville filed a petition for a declaratory ruling with the state Department of Revenue seeking the return of taxes collected from areas not covered by the service full time. The complaint since has been joined by Benton, Cuba City, Wiota and South Wayne.