Measure C Is One Lifeline For Paramedics

The paramedics in Corte Madera provide "a valuable function and we couldn't do without them," according to Susan Topor.

Believe it or not, she's actually opposed to Measure C, the renewal of a parcel tax which would help finance the town's paramedic service.

"They're good guys. I support the paramedics," Topor said. "This is very simply a matter of priorities. … The Town Council needs to put essentials ahead of non-essentials."

Topor would like to see the paramedic service supported through the Town's general fund.

"The Town pays for landscaping services and other services ... we just have to consider what our priorities are," Topor said.

Measure C would renew a $60 per parcel tax. The Town could increase the parcel tax by $5 per year up to $75.

Councilwoman Diane Furst warns that if Measure C fails, the town might have to consider other alternatives, perhaps joining the Ross Valley Paramedic Authority.

"They have just one ambulance and response times, especially on the east side, could be 8 minutes or more," Furst said.

Topor says contracting with outside services, or consolidating services with neighboring towns, could be something the Town should consider.