A levy limit exception for certain shared emergency services expenditures. (FE)
Impact
If passed, SB986 would allow municipalities operating joint dispatch centers more flexibility in their budgetary processes. By creating an exemption to existing levy limits, the bill aims to enhance the financial viability of emergency services at the local level. Supporters argue that this will improve response times and resource allocation for law enforcement, fire services, and emergency medical services, ultimately benefiting community safety.
Summary
Senate Bill 986 aims to amend Wisconsin statutes regarding levy limits for local governments, specifically introducing an exception for certain shared emergency services expenditures. The legislation modifies existing laws to permit increased appropriations for local municipalities operating joint emergency dispatch centers. The bill stipulates that any fee increases levied by these centers will not count towards local levy limits if specific conditions are met, such as the increase not exceeding the rate of inflation plus 2%. This provision is designed to ensure that local governments can adequately fund essential emergency services without being hindered by strict levy caps.
Contention
However, there could be concerns surrounding potential overreach of financial authority and the balance of funding within municipalities. Some local governments may fear that the exclusivity of joint dispatch centers could lead to disparities in funding against smaller communities or those without such services. The requirement for a resolution from all member municipalities to exceed levy limits could catalyze disagreements among local governments about necessary expenditures and operational priorities.
Notable_points
Overall, this bill reflects a growing recognition of the challenges local governments face in funding critical services amidst financial constraints. The implementation of SB986 could mark a significant shift in how local governments manage their budgets related to emergency service provisions, potentially leading to both enhanced service efficiency and debate over local fiscal strategies.
Reimbursement of emergency services under the Medical Assistance program when a patient is not transported; emergency medical services education; tuition and materials reimbursement for emergency medical responders and emergency medical services practitioners; reporting on changes to the scope of practice of emergency medical responders and emergency medical services practitioners; a levy limit exemption for regional emergency medical systems; eligible expenses of fire dues program; a live 911 pilot program; eligibility for the expenditure restraint incentive program; and making an appropriation. (FE)
Reimbursement of emergency services under the Medical Assistance program when a patient is not transported; emergency medical services education; tuition and materials reimbursement for emergency medical responders and emergency medical services practitioners; reporting on changes to the scope of practice of emergency medical responders and emergency medical services practitioners; a levy limit exemption for regional emergency medical systems; eligible expenses of fire dues program; a live 911 pilot program; eligibility for the expenditure restraint incentive program; and making an appropriation. (FE)
County and municipal aid; imposing a city sales tax and an additional county sales tax to pay the unfunded actuarial accrued liability of city and county retirement systems; requiring newly hired city and county employees of certain city agencies and counties to be enrolled in the Wisconsin Retirement System; fire and police commissions of first class cities; eliminating the personal property tax; reporting certain crimes and other incidents that occur on school property or school transportation; advisory referenda; local health officers; local public protection services; exceptions to local levy limits; local regulation of certain quarry operations; emergency services; local approval of projects and activities under the Warren Knowles-Gaylord Nelson Stewardship 2000 Program; requiring a referendum; and granting rule-making authority. (FE)
County and municipal aid; imposing a city sales tax and an additional county sales tax to pay the unfunded actuarial accrued liability of city and county retirement systems; requiring newly hired city and county employees of certain city agencies and counties to be enrolled in the Wisconsin Retirement System; fire and police commissions of first class cities; eliminating the personal property tax; reporting certain crimes and other incidents that occur on school property or school transportation; advisory referenda; local health officers; local public protection services; exceptions to local levy limits; local regulation of certain quarry operations; emergency services; local approval of projects and activities under the Warren Knowles-Gaylord Nelson Stewardship 2000 Program; requiring a referendum; and granting rule-making authority. (FE)
Reimbursement of emergency services under the Medical Assistance program when a patient is not transported, reporting on changes to the scope of practice of emergency medical responders and emergency medical services practitioners, and eligibility for the expenditure restraint incentive program. (FE)
Reimbursement of emergency services under the Medical Assistance program when a patient is not transported, reporting on changes to the scope of practice of emergency medical responders and emergency medical services practitioners, and eligibility for the expenditure restraint incentive program. (FE)