Possible EMS Levy Options on Yakima City Council Agenda Amid Budget Cuts

A "cruise the ave" discussion is planned at next Tuesday's Yakima City Council meeting. At a time when the city is dealing with major budget cuts and a lack of operating dollars the cost of everything needs to be analyzed including the cost of the allowing people to cruise Yakima Avenue.

CITY STAFF WILL HELP THE COUNCIL CRUNCH THE NUMBERS

The council will hear a presentation from city staff about the cost of the event and the number of Yakima Police Officer needed to make it happen.
According to the city each cruise night requires 9 Officers and 1 Supervisor to keep the area safe during the event. The total cost of cruise the ave events last year was $37,727. The cost this year is projected to be $41,500. The council isn't expected to make any major decisions in the discussion planned for Tuesday at Yakima City Hall.

READ MORE: HELP THE FAMILY OF A TEEN SHOT IN YAKIMA 

WILL THE CITY FLOAT AN EMS LEVY IN THE FUTURE?

The Council is also expected to get a report from city staff showing a financial analysis of a potential EMS Levy to support emergency services after 2026 budget cuts hit Yakima Police and Fire Departments. City staff is looking for some direction from the council on whether or not to move forward with the Emergency Medical Services levy on a future ballot.

THE COUNCIL IS FACED WITH SOME BIG DECISIONS

The staff also wants to know if the council prefers a 6 or 10-year term. According to the Yakima City Council agenda direction for city staff will allow the staff to " prepare the necessary ballot ordinance and coordinate with the Yakima County Elections Office in accordance with the election calendar."

THE MEETING STARTS AT 5:30 AT CITY HALL AND YOU'RE INVITED

5:30 p.m. Regular Meeting | 6:00 p.m. Public Hearings --- This meeting will be conducted in person, live streamed at www.yakimawa.gov and telecast live on YPAC, Spectrum Cable Channel 194. You may also participate via Zoom or call in by dialing 1 (253) 215-8782 | Webinar ID: 960 3931 2942 | Passcode: 566720
Individuals who wish to provide public comment remotely may submit a Public Comment Request Form online no later than two hours prior to the start of the meeting. If you wish to provide public comment in-person, fill out a "Request for Appearance" form and hand it to the City Clerk before you address City Council.