Hardin County supervisors are moving forward with plans to declare Emergency Medical Services an essential service — even as local towns like Ackley work to strengthen their own coverage. At their meeting on Wednesday (Aug. 27), the board approved the first reading of a resolution that recognizes EMS as critical for public safety and opens the door to voter-approved funding. By law, the resolution must pass readings at two separate meetings before heading to the ballot, where voters would need to approve a funding levy by at least 60 percent.
The issue comes as Ackley has finalized plans for its own first responders group. The Ackley City Council first approved the idea back in May, and this month, four volunteers announced they’re ready to begin responding to emergencies. They’ll provide initial care until Iowa Falls or Eldora EMS arrives. Officials hope the effort will cut response times and improve coverage in the Ackley area.
Currently, Iowa Falls and Eldora carry the bulk of paramedic calls in the county of about 16,000 residents. They also bear the expenses — Eldora alone spends nearly $300,000 a year — while smaller towns rely heavily on volunteers. If voters approve, Hardin County could levy a property tax to support countywide EMS. Butler County approved a similar measure in the 2024 election.
Information from Hardin County Supervisors meeting provided by Supervisor BJ Hoffman.
Additional information about Butler County EMS can be found here.
