FAQs

What is the Alle-Kiski Emergency Services Authority (AKESA)?

AKESA is a proposed public Emergency Services Authority formed under the Pennsylvania Municipality Authorities Act. Its purpose is to ensure reliable, professional, and financially sustainable emergency medical services for participating municipalities through a unified regional system.

Why is an EMS Authority being considered?

Local EMS providers are facing serious challenges, including:

• Rising operating costs

• Staffing shortages

• Declining subscription and donation revenue

• Insurance reimbursements that cover only a portion of actual costs

Without a new approach, EMS service reliability is at risk. The Authority model provides a long-term, predictable funding structure and coordinated oversight to stabilize EMS for the future.

How long has this been in development?

Discussions began more thana year and a half ago between EMS leaders and municipal officials. Since then, a working group of appointed representatives from EMS agencies and municipalities has met regularly, engaged professional consultants, and developed the proposed Authority framework.

Were professionals involved in developing this plan?

Yes. The working group engaged professional consultants experienced in Pennsylvania EMS authorities to assist with evaluating options, developing the Authority structure, drafting governance documents, and preparing the Articles of Incorporation. Just as important was the inclusion of EMS and government leaders in the 

When will a decision be made?

A joint incorporation hearing will be held on January 14, 2026. At that meeting, participating municipalities will publicly consider the proposal and vote on whether to create the Authority.

Who will run the Authority?

If created, AKESA will be governed by a Board of Directors with members appointed by participating municipalities (and, if applicable, participating EMS providers), as outlined in the approved governance structure.

All Board meetings will be public meetings in accordance with the Pennsylvania Sunshine Act.

How will AKESA be funded?

AKESA would be funded through a combination of insurance reimbursements and an annual EMS fee paid by property owners in participating municipalities. Insurance reimbursements alone do not cover the full cost of providing 24/7 EMS readiness.

Has the EMS fee been finalized?

No. While a tentative fee has been discussed for planning purposes, the final fee has not been set.

After the Authority is formally created, the Board will develop a detailed service and fee plan.

Will there be a public hearing on the EMS fee?

Yes. State law requires a public fee hearing before any EMS fee can be imposed. Residents will have the opportunity to review the proposed services and fee structure and provide public comment before any final decision is made.

Who would be billed for the EMS fee?

Consistent with Pennsylvania law, the EMS fee would be billed to property owners, not renters. Property owners may decide independently whether and how to pass the cost on to tenants.

Will residents still receive ambulance bills?

AKESA is designed to reduce or eliminate surprise EMS bills by stabilizing funding and standardizing billing practices. Specific billing policies will be set by the Authority Board and presented publicly before implementation.

What happens if an AKESA ambulance is unavailable?

AKESA will maintain mutual aid agreements with surrounding EMS providers to ensure that no emergency call goes unanswered.

When would AKESA begin operating?

If approved, the Authority would move through organizational steps in 2026, with the goal of beginning full operations after service plans, staffing, and funding mechanisms are finalized.

Where can residents find updates?

Updates, meeting notices, and public documents will be posted on this website as the process moves forward.