Garfield County must vote again, and just three registered voters in Major County could help determine the future of Hennessey’s ambulance district.
The voter-approved Hennessey 522 Ambulance District has hit another legal roadblock. It turns out the original election in Garfield County was not properly advertised by Garfield County Commissioners, and three registered voters in Major County must also have their say.
Hennessey-area voters approved the formation of the ambulance district in June, and a board was established to oversee the new service. However, the board was later advised by its attorney that a small portion of the Hennessey Public School District extends into Major County, including just one household with three registered voters.
Because the proposed 522 Ambulance District follows the boundaries of the Hennessey School District, voters in all three counties, Kingfisher, Garfield, and Major, must have the opportunity to approve its formation.
Kingfisher County voters previously approved the proposal, and their vote will stand. However, Garfield County voters must vote again due to the notification issue, and eligible Major County residents must vote for the first time.
The new election is scheduled for February 9, 2027, and will involve only voters living within the affected portions of Garfield and Major Counties. Kingfisher County residents will not have to vote again.
If the proposal fails in either Garfield or Major County, the previously approved 522 Ambulance District could be declared invalid, potentially forcing the entire process to start over.
PUBLIC MEETING SCHEDULED
Kingfisher County District 2 Commissioner Mike Sparks will host a public meeting on Monday, November 9, at 6 p.m. at the 132 Bible Church, located at 10014 E0610 Road on Highway 132, west of Hennessey.
The county assessor, attorneys representing the county, and several other officials are expected to attend and answer questions.
The meeting will give residents an opportunity to learn more about the upcoming election, the legal requirements for establishing the 522 Ambulance District, and the proposed tax that would help fund ambulance services for the Hennessey area.
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