What You Need to Know

What is ESD No. 5?

The proposed ESD No. 5, if approved by voters, will operate emergency medical services in Caldwell County by providing EMS response.

Why is ESD No. 5?

• A group of Caldwell County residents gathered enough signatures to require the County to order an election to for the creation of ESD  No. 5 to provide EMS services.

  • The County held a public hearing on the petition, which subsequently led to the Commissioners ordering an election on the creation of ESD No. 5, which is scheduled for Tuesday, November 7, 2023.

• The establishment of ESD No. 5 will provide funding for local emergency services, which can enable the ESD to purchase ambulances and hire emergency medical personnel.

Why is the creation of ESD No. 5 proposed?

• Beginning in 2015, the City of Lockhart contracted with the Seton Family of Hospitals for EMS services. That contract expired October 1, 2023, at Seton’s option, meaning another means of obtaining EMS services is required. 

How will the proposed ESD No. 5 be funded?

If voters approve the creation of ESD No. 5, the new EMS district will levy up to 10 cents per $100 property valuation tax (the State constitutional maximum) to make a steady stream of revenue available to provide emergency services. 

• For example, if your property is valued at $100,000, you will pay $100 annually to the ESD. 

  • Formula: property value x 0.10/100 = ESD No. 5 tax

What does the creation of the proposed ESD 5 mean to existing police and fire departments?

ESD No. 5 will provide only emergency medical ambulance services, and associated emergency medical services.  Operations for existing ESDs, police and fire departments – including those serving the cities of Luling and Lockhart – will otherwise remain the same.