San Juan Island EMS

The Main Sources of Funding for EMS:

Property Taxes

Voter Approved Property Tax is the primary funding source which is renewed every 6 years.  Our current levy was approved in 2004 and is good from 2005-2011.  We will renew our levy in 2010 for another 6 year term of 2011-2016.

We only take what we need to do the job. We develop our budget around what we need to safely operate, look for revenue sources other than taxes (aid car fees, educational programs, grants), and then take the minimum amount of taxes needed to fill the gap. In 2008, we REDUCED the tax levy by 4% and have never taken the full amount allowed on this levy! Where did the rest go? It stayed in the taxpayers pockets. We attempt to use NON-tax resources before we set our yearly tax rate.  Most other districts take their full tax PLUS 1% each consecutive year.

Insurance Billing

In order to keep taxes lower, District residents’ insurance companies are billed for services. Beginning in 2006, NO deductible or co-payment is required for District residents. Prior to 2006, residents were required to pay for all charges regardless of insurance coverage. Non-residents must still pay their full bill as they have not “paid” their deductible through taxes. Call our Healthcare Billing Partners in Missoula, Montana at (888) 850-4574 or by email with any billing questions or concerns.

Charitable Donations

Please consider making a charitable donation to the EMS. Your generous tax-deductible donations are greatly needed and appreciated. Many people wish to make a donation to EMS in memory or honor of a loved one. Your donations will go toward worthy projects like CPR classes or important educational opportunities for EMTs.

Contributions can be mailed to:

San Juan Island EMS
P.O. Box 2178
Friday Harbor, WA 98250-2178