At its final meeting of the year, the Douglass Township Board of Supervisors reviewed several items for approval under the treasurer's report. It approved a 2023 tax resolution concerning the emergency medical services.

            For months, the supervisors, the Emergency Medical Services (EMS) board, and other township staff have met to discuss the financial struggle of the Gilbertsville Area Community Ambulance Service (GACAS).

            The dire situation of maintaining an efficient and cohesive EMS unit has been seen in many municipalities throughout Pennsylvania and the country. The township made it a priority to keep the vital service operational and of high quality in the township.

            The EMS board reorganized itself and shifted from a 50 percent staff rate to a now 100 percent working staff. President Mark Landes stepped into the position in July 2022 and directed the revamping of the organization. He thanked the board for their support and stated that they "worked tirelessly on the matter."

            This tax resolution calls for an additional .5 mills for the emergency service tax, which is separate from the township's general fund budget, to help fund the ambulance service. It is expected to generate $310,000 annually, according to Chairman Joshua Stouch.

            On Wednesday, Stouch described the dedicated user fee as necessary to continue 24/7 ambulance service for township residents. Meetings were held monthly throughout the year. The proposed tax resolution was "discussed extensively," the supervisor said during the meeting.

            Stouch asked Landes if they could "operate in Douglass Township at status quo" with financial support. Landes replied with a firm "yes."

            Vice President of the EMS board Jessica Gisinger-Doran said, "We are very appreciative of the work the township had done for the organization."

            The board also approved the 2023 general budget of $4,845,990. Manager Peter Hiryak explained that the township is off to a good start for the upcoming year.

            "We started the process in August," he said.

            Hiryak said the entire township staff has been working diligently on the budget, that was approved unanimously. Copies of the budget can be picked up at the Douglass Township building or on its website.

             In addition, the board approved a 2023 Real Estate Tax resolution that would keep the tax at 3.0 mills.

            The members held a hearing on an ordinance, which they ultimately voted to adopt,  authorizing Washington Township, in Berks County, to join the Intergovernmental Cooperative Agreement with the Pottstown Area Regional Recreational Committee. The organization consists of seven municipalities that work together to preserve open space, create trails, greenways and recreational facilities for the public to enjoy.

            "It's a terrific organization," Hiryak said.