PRINCESS ANNE, MD - Somerset County Commissioners are considering increasing the 911 emergency services fee from 75 cents to $1.50. The surcharge automatically applies to mobile and landlines to support emergency response systems.
Somerset County Emergency Services Director Yvette Sterling Cross told WBOC that the proposal to double the fee comes amid a funding shortfall. In FY23, Somerset County's 911 Center faced a greater than $1 million deficit.
Alexis Carter, who lives in Somerset County, said she has some concerns regarding a potential increase.
"Kind of alarming," Carter said. "Any raise in Somerset County could be a detriment to county residents."
The proposition comes amid a transition to a county-wide EMS following an announcement from the Princess Anne Volunteer Fire Department in January that it could no longer afford to run its ambulance service.
Miriam Misencik of Princess Anne said that the proposed increase is a small price to pay to support life-saving services.
"Nobody's going to notice the 75-cent increase in their phone bill, and they need the service here in Somerset County," Misencik said. "If they're the ones that need the ambulance service, they're going to wish, you know, they did have the increase."
Emergency Services Director Cross said the increase would help with the 911 call center's maintenance and operation costs. If adopted, it would take effect July 1.
While higher bills are not ideal, Lauren Mears of Somerset County said it may be necessary to secure the services provided by the 911 call center.
"Where else would they get these funds to help the people of the community?" Mears said. "It's kind of a necessary evil."
A public hearing for the proposed increase will be held during Tuesday's Somerset County Commissioners meeting.