HCS/SB 1329 - This act establishes the "..... Emergency Services Board". Annually, the board shall establish a tax rate not to exceed the amount authorized. Three of the seven members on the board shall represent public safety entities. Those serving upon the effective date of this bill will be able to serve and seek reappointment or reelection.

This act establishes that the board will elect its chairman annually.

This act creates additional powers and duties for the board which include acquiring land, borrowing money and issuing bonds, suing and being sued, using a corporate seal, entering contract, managing the board's business affairs, hiring employees, paying expenses associated with the first election, and other powers needed to provide emergency services.

Under this act, to purchase property or equipment needed for the operation of central dispatching of emergency services, the board may borrow money and issue bonds. The question of the loan shall be decided by the submission of the question to the voters of the county at the first election during the calendar year.

If passed by the voters, the board shall have the power to borrow money in the name of the board for the amount and purposes specified on the ballot; and in turn, issue bonds.

The loans shall not be contracted for more than 20 years and the act establishes a limit on the total amount of the loan. The directors shall direct a portion of the tax needed to pay the interest on the indebtedness as it falls due and to constitute a sinking fund for the payment of principal as it becomes due as well.

The provisions of this act apply only to Warren County.
SUSAN HENDERSON