Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Levy

Marysville Fire District is proposing an Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Levy on the August 1 primary ballot. 

The measure would replace two EMS levies with one levy.  The amount of the new levy would be capped at 50 cents per $1,000 of assessed property value, the same amount previously approved by voters.

This levy would: 

• Replace existing EMS levies in the City of Marysville and Snohomish County Fire District 12
• Be set at the same rate previously approved by voters
• Maintain EMS service levels in our community

How much will the new levy cost me?

Voters in the City of Marysville and Fire District 12 have historically approved an EMS levy rate of 50 cents per $1,000 of assessed property value. That rate has now fallen to 45 cents per $1,000.

If voters restore the EMS levy rate to 50 cents, that represents a 5 cent increase per $1,000 of assessed property value, per year. See the chart below for a breakdown based on home values.

*Cost per $1,000 of assessed property value

**2023 average Marysville home value as reported by Snohomish County Assessor 2023 Annual Report

Your Emergency Medical Services (EMS)

Medical emergencies make up more than 80 percent of Marysville Fire District's total calls for service. Every firefighter is certified as an Emergency Medical Technician (trained to provide basic life support) or a Paramedic (trained to provide advanced life support) so we can respond to our community's needs 24 hours each day. EMS levy funding is critical to maintain these vital services. Learn more about EMS services here.

Why do we need a new EMS levy?

In 2019, voters approved the merger of the City of Marysville and Fire District 12 into a Regional Fire Authority (RFA). Part of that voter-approved plan includes replacing the two existing EMS levies in the City of Marysville and Fire District 12 with a single levy. The rate would be capped at 50 cents per $1,000 of assessed value, the same rate previously approved by voters in both jurisdictions.

In addition, the previous EMS levy lid lift approved by Marysville voters will expire at the end of 2023, so approval of a new levy is needed in order for Marysville Fire District to maintain the current level of emergency medical services provided.

How will money from the EMS Levy used?

EMS levy funding will be used maintain emergency service levels and continue both basic and advanced life support – the highest standard of care – for Marysville Fire District residents.

Under Washington State law, EMS levy funding can only be used for providing emergency medical care or services, including related personnel costs, training, equipment, supplies, vehicles and structures.

Have other questions?

Please give us a call at (360) 363-8500 or email us here.