How This Process Began
More than a year and a half ago, local EMS providers and municipal leaders began addressing a growing challenge facing our communities: the long-term sustainability of emergency medical services. Declining revenues, rising operational costs, and staffing pressures made it clear that the existing model was no longer stable.
To address this, EMS leaders and municipal officials began a series of discussions focused on identifying a long-term, regional solution. From those discussions, a working group was formed consisting of appointed representatives from each participating municipality and the two local EMS agencies. Over the course of the past year and a half, this group met regularly to review data, evaluate options, and explore potential structures.
As the concept of a regional EMS authority emerged as the most viable solution, the group engaged professional consultants with experience in Pennsylvania EMS authority formation. Working together, the group and consultants developed the proposed framework for the Alle-Kiski Emergency Services Authority (AKESA), including draft governance documents and Articles of Incorporation.
To ensure transparency and public input, a community presentation and public meeting was held on December 4, 2025, at Highlands High School to explain the proposal, answer questions, and receive feedback from residents.
What Happens Next
Creation of Authority
On March 25, 2026, the communities of Brackenridge, Harrison, and Tarentum each voted to approve the creation of the Alle-Kiski Emergency Services Authority (AKESA), formally authorizing the filing of the Articles of Incorporation.
Initial Organizational Meeting
Once the article of incorporation is approved by the State the Authority will be legally created, and an initial organizational meeting will be held. Board members will be formally appointed in accordance with the approved structure.
Development of Service and Fee Plan
Following incorporation, the Authority Board will develop detailed service plans, operational policies, staffing structure, and a proposed EMS fee.
Public Fee Hearing
Before any fee can be enacted, the Authority is legally required to hold a public fee hearing. This hearing will allow residents to review the proposed services and fee structure and provide public comment.
Notice to Property Owners and Implementation
After the public hearing and Board action, written notice of the adopted service and fee plan will be provided to property owners, and the Authority will continue preparations to begin full operations.
This process has been deliberate, transparent, and collaborative, with the shared goal of ensuring reliable, high-quality, and financially sustainable emergency medical services for our communities now and into the future.