Roanoke Rapids City Council Tuesday night tabled a proposal by Roanoke Valley Rescue Squad to support a resolution for a referendum in which voters would decide to back a 1-cent property tax to help fund the organization.

Councilman Wayne Smith, who is a lifetime member of the squad, recused himself from voting on the matter.

Council met using the Zoom application format to comply with limits on gatherings and social distancing due to the novel coronavirus pandemic.

In introducing the matter to council, City Manager Joseph Scherer said in supporting documentation, “The Roanoke Valley Rescue Squad has been a longstanding provider of rescue operations in the city of Roanoke Rapids since 1956. Over the years, the city has assisted the rescue squad with monetary and other resources.”

State statute allows the city the option to levy property taxes for ambulance services, Scherer said.

“The Roanoke Valley Rescue Squad has requested city council consider adopting a resolution of support for a ballot proposition for a one-cent property tax referendum in the November 2020 election to help fund vital rescue operations in the city of Roanoke Rapids.”

Councilman Carl Ferebee led the effort to have the matter tabled, citing concerns associated with the city’s own deliberations about the upcoming fiscal year budget. “I’m not sure where we are,” he said, “I’m not sure it would be everything to cover their needs.”

Mayor Emery Doughtie said the money would not be coming out of the city’s budget. “They’re asking the city to put it on the ballot.”

Ferebee said he remains concerned about the city’s current situation in light of lower revenue projections. He said he is concerned the city may have to discuss a tax increase during budget deliberations. “There are shortfalls out there.”

The councilman asked later in the meeting whether there are any monies the rescue squad could apply for.

Scherer said he would have that discussion with the rescue squad when he meets with its officials.

The resolution on the matter says, “ … The delivery of emergency rescue services is an essential function of the fire and life safety responsibility of local and regional government.”

The resolution notes the squad has “been an integral part of the city’s safety programs and functions.”

The resolution says, “ … The vital services provided by the Roanoke Valley Rescue Squad have been beneficial to the citizens of Roanoke Rapids … and the city of Roanoke Rapids has supported the Roanoke Valley Rescue Squad with resources and monetary contributions for many years.”

The document says, however, “ … With the current health and economic state of the rescue squad, annual funding from the city of Roanoke Rapids is critical to maintain their ability to respond to all needed calls, replace much needed vital equipment and building repairs.”

A spokesperson for the squad was not immediately available for comment this morning.