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The Escambia County Healthcare Authority released a letter to the public last week seeking support in their quest for financial assistance for the county’s hospitals.
In the public release, the ECHCA is seeking an additional 4-mills tax that could be up for a vote by county residents. The release said:
“Community leaders, healthcare advocates, and residents across Escambia County are being called on to support a proposed 4-mills property tax that will provide funding for healthcare needs throughout the county.
In June 2024 the Escambia County Health Care Authority “ECHCA” Board asked the County Commission for financial support for its hospitals and expressed the ongoing lack of sufficient reimbursement to support rising operational costs.
“ECHCA Board identified a solution through leveraging the additional 4-mills tax available through legislation approved decades ago. ECHCA currently receives 4-mills, however the legislation allows for up to 8 mills.
“The Attorney General has confirmed the Escambia County Commission may hold an election. The Commission has not called an election to date, so ECHCA is acting on the next steps by seeking signatures of support on a petition to ensure that this proposed tax is put on a ballot for the voters to have a voice. A petition is currently circulating and its success in gathering enough support will determine whether this proposed tax proceeds to a public vote. The proposed measure aims to generate sustainable funding to preserve healthcare access, maintain essential services at local hospitals, and ensure quality care for all county residents.
“This is about keeping access to healthcare close to home,” said Debbie Rowell, Chairwoman/ECHCA. “Our hospitals are stretched beyond thin! This investment will help stabilize services, support ongoing efforts to provide quality care to the community, and ensure access to local healthcare for future generations.”
“According to the Alabama Hospital Association and data on Medicare Cost Reports, Alabama hospitals provide more than $655 million in uncompensated care each year. Currently, 71 percent of all Alabama hospitals operate at a loss and 83 percent of Alabama rural hospitals operate at a loss.
For a property valued at $100,000 (after exemptions), the estimated cost would be approximately $40 annually—or $3.33 per month—to ensure every resident has access to reliable and timely care. All funds generated would go directly to supporting the health system in Escambia County.
“Our healthcare system is the safety net for our communities,” said Keith Horton, Board Member/ECHCA. “This measure is a vital step toward protecting our hospitals and ensuring we are prepared to meet today’s challenges and tomorrow’s emergencies.”
Escambia County Health Care Authority Board members are strongly encouraging Escambia County citizens to support the tax by signing the petition. Supporters urge all residents to learn more and vote yes for a healthier Escambia County. The current ECHCA Board Members are Debbie Rowell, Sharon Davidson, Nancy Lowrey, Tony Sanks, Keith Horton, Al Holley, Jim Johnson, and Justin Stabler.”
Petitions are circulating around the county in hopes that enough signatures will be secured to initiate the placement of the tax increase on an upcoming ballot to allow the county residents to make the decision on the increase.
In the Brewton area, voters may sign the petition located at the Brewton Area YMCA on Belleville Avenue during regular hours of operation.