MILLVALE, Pa. — Ross/West View EMS is asking five North Hills communities to approve higher annual fees for residents and businesses.
The proposal was discussed Monday at an initial meeting with Millvale Borough Council.
Interim Director Steve Kline told Channel 11 the agency needs the increase as its operating costs rise.
“We were trying not to increase the fee, however, as costs have increased, we have not had a choice,” Kline said.
The annual fee for residents would increase from $55 to $80.
For businesses, the proposal would replace the current rates with a 10-tier system based on square footage.
Businesses would pay between $350 and $9,850 a year, with the amount increasing as a business moves into a higher square-footage tier.
“The increase in the fee is going to go to capital equipment purchases and keeping our fleet updated with ambulances, new cardiac monitors, new medical equipment,” he said.
Kline said the fee has not changed in three years.
He also wants to use the additional revenue to address a pay gap.
“We need to increase our staff wages. Our current wages are $3 an hour under all our neighbors. That doesn’t do well for recruitment and retention,” Kline said.
The proposal could also help the agency build a reserve fund.
“As of right now, if insurance payments don’t come in on time, if there’s any kind of delay, we don’t have a cushion,” Kline said. “Our projections by the end of the year, we may have $3,000 in the bank.
Ross/West View EMS serves Ross Township, West View Borough, Millvale Borough, Reserve Township and Ohio Township.
All five communities must approve the proposed ordinance for it to take effect.
Kline said if even one council does not approve it, he will have to go back to the drawing board.
Ross and Reserve townships are scheduled to hear the proposal Wednesday, November 4, 2026.
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