A $1.7 million deficit in funding for EMS services is addressed in a new letter coming from Star Valley’s mayors this week.

They acknowledged the the importance of emergency medical services  but also noted the local hospital had assumed management of the operational structure.

The mayors noted the importance of tracking community expenses. “As elected officials and stewards of taxpayer resources, we have a responsibility to carefully evaluate any request for public funding.”

The mayors said they remain committed to “constructing discussions.”

The following letter was sent to Star Valley Health:

Dear Star Valley Health Leadership,

The mayors of Afton, Thayne, Alpine, and Star Valley Ranch recently met to discuss Star Valley Health’s request for municipal financial support to address the reported $1.7 million EMS operating deficit. We understand that Lincoln County has also been approached regarding this matter.

First and foremost, we recognize that emergency medical services are a critical public safety function and an essential component of healthcare delivery throughout Star Valley. We share a common goal of ensuring that residents and visitors continue to receive timely, reliable, and high-quality emergency medical care.

At the same time, we believe it is important to acknowledge how the current situation developed. Star Valley Health voluntarily assumed responsibility for EMS operations, transitioned the service model away from the traditional volunteer-based system, and established the staffing, management, and operational structure that exists today. These decisions were made independently by Star Valley Health, and neither the municipalities nor Lincoln County were involved in the planning, approval, or implementation of those operational changes.

As elected officials and stewards of taxpayer resources, we have a responsibility to carefully evaluate any request for public funding. To date, the information provided has consisted primarily of a single deficit figure without the supporting financial, operational, and performance data necessary for meaningful review. Without a clear understanding of the factors contributing to the deficit, the towns and county cannot adequately assess the request, evaluate alternatives, or determine the most appropriate path forward.

We believe that productive collaboration must begin with transparency. To facilitate informed discussions, we respectfully request detailed information regarding EMS operations, including revenues, expenditures, staffing levels, call volumes, reimbursement rates, administrative allocations, and any analyses used to support the current funding request. Access to this information will allow all stakeholders to evaluate the sustainability of the current model and explore potential solutions based on facts rather than assumptions.

The municipalities remain committed to participating in constructive discussions regarding the future of EMS in Star Valley. We recognize the importance of this service and stand ready to work collaboratively toward a sustainable long-term solution. However, meaningful progress will require a shared understanding of the financial and operational realities facing the system.

We look forward to receiving the requested information and continuing this important conversation in a spirit of transparency, accountability, and partnership.

Sincerely,

The Mayors of Afton, Thayne, Alpine, and Star Valley Ranch