To the editor:

Webster County recently held an election and authorized taxation to pay for EMT/ambulance services, designating such medical service as “essential.” I am left with a question now that the issue has been resolved with wildly favorable results. We will pay for such service with tax dollars. OK, good plan.

My question: Why should we be billed individually for this essential service? If you need police service, you do not get a bill after the fact. If you need help with a fire you won’t receive a bill later. Living in the country, my family has traditionally received fire/medical services from volunteers in Vincent, Badger and Duncombe. Our family has always donated to fund drives for these agencies. Looking back, perhaps we should have coughed up more money, but we gladly did, do and will give in the future.

How is an essential tax-supported, medical emergency different from police and fire services, and should therefore be individually billable? My enlightenment is eagerly awaited. Shortly before the election, a medical emergency occurred at my home and I called 911. The necessary EMTs and ambulance quickly arrived. Wonderful reaction and service. About a week later a bill for around $900 arrived. The bill was expected and will be paid. This should not be SOP in the future.

Roger D. Snell

Duncombe