Residents press for answers on sales tax vote

Allen County Commissioner David Lee hosted a public forum Thursday to spell out the case for a half-cent sales tax to support the county's ambulance program, and to answer several questions from local voters.
Nancy Haire asks Allen County Commission Chairman David Lee about rising county expenses and the uncertainty surrounding potential property tax reductions during a community meeting Thursday evening at Riverside Park in Iola. Photo by Sarah Haney / Iola Register
by Sarah Haney
Published: October 23, 2026
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Allen County Commissioner David Lee hosted a public forum Thursday to spell out the case for a half-cent sales tax to support the county’s ambulance program, and to answer several questions from local voters.

Allen County Commission Chairman David Lee explains the proposed half-cent sales tax for emergency medical services and answers residents’ questions.

Allen County residents raised questions about property tax savings, ambulance funding and the county’s plans for emergency medical services during a community meeting Thursday evening at the community building in Riverside Park.

County Commission Chairman David Lee led the question-and-answer session as commissioners seek voter approval Nov. 3 for a new half-cent sales tax dedicated to emergency medical services. The proposal comes two years after a similar measure failed in 2024.

Lee said the county is trying to find another way to pay for ambulance service without relying on property taxes, but he cautioned that commissioners cannot guarantee how much property taxes would decrease.

Sarah Haney

Sarah joined the Register in November 2023. With 13 years of experience in journalism, she is a 2009 graduate of Cottey College, in Nevada, Mo with a degree in English. Upon graduating, she began her career in journalism at her hometown paper in 2010. Over the next 13 years (and a brief hiatus to Fayetteville, Ark.), she worked her way up to the position of editor and enjoyed the connections she built within her community. Sarah is a member of Rotary Club International and the P.E.O. Sisterhood. She enjoys reading, listening to her vinyl records, and spending time with family and friends.

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