FAQs             For More Information visit  www.safe-d.org

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Q: What is an ESD?    
A: An Emergency Services District is a political subdivision of the State of Texas, similar to a School District, Library District or Hospital District.

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Q: How are ESDs governed?    
A: A board of five commissioners governs an ESD. In most counties in Texas, the County Commissioners Court appoints the commissioners to two-year terms. 

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Q: Do ESD boards have meetings?    
A: By law, ESD boards must meet at least once a month. All meetings are subject to the Texas Open Meetings Act. ESDs must also comply with the Texas Public Information Act concerning open records requests and records retention.

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Q: Do ESDs support only volunteer fire departments?    

A: No. While many ESDs contract with or support all-volunteer departments, many others support fully professional or combination (professional and volunteer) departments.

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Q: How are ESDs funded?    
A: ESDs are allowed to levy ad valorem (property) tax. 

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ESDs may also collect sales tax, provided an election is held and voters approve this power. 

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ESDs are also allowed to bill for services provided, such as emergency medical services or fire protection, if it so chooses.

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