Yakima Weighs $3M EMS Levy Amid Tax Hike Concerns

Proposal aims to prevent closure of local fire station after budget cuts.

Published on Feb. 4, 2026

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The Yakima City Council is considering a $3 million emergency medical services (EMS) levy to prevent the closure of a local fire station this summer, following significant public safety budget cuts to balance the city's budget.

Why it matters

The proposed EMS levy has raised concerns among Yakima residents about the compounding effect of tax hikes, as the city has already implemented other measures to address budget shortfalls, including public safety cuts.

The details

The Yakima City Council is considering the $3 million EMS levy to keep a local fire station from closing this summer. This comes after the city resorted to significant public safety cuts to balance its budget.

  • The Yakima City Council is currently considering the $3 million EMS levy proposal.
  • The fire station is slated to close this summer if the levy is not approved.

The players

Yakima City Council

The governing body of the city of Yakima, Washington, which is considering the $3 million EMS levy proposal.

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What’s next

The Yakima City Council will vote on whether to approve the $3 million EMS levy in the coming weeks.

The takeaway

The proposed EMS levy in Yakima highlights the difficult budget decisions facing local governments, as they seek to maintain public services while also addressing concerns about the cumulative impact of tax increases on residents.