The busiest fire department in Trumbull County is asking voters for more money. 

For nearly a decade, Howland Fire Chief James Pantalone said his crews have been the busiest in the county taking at least 27% more calls than the next closest department in line.

Pantalone said the majority of those calls are for medic services.

"In Howland Township we see a lot of population in an aging population, so we see a lot of falls, a lot of life assists," said Pantalone. "But along with that, we see a myriad of chest pain, shortness of breaths, a lot of medical emergencies."

The chief would like to put a fourth ambulance in operation, specifically to be housed at the Bolindale Station. Pantalone said the township has the vehicle but needs the additional staff to keep the ambulance operating 24/7.

"Within about four minutes, we want to get to your emergency. So it's very important to get a fourth ambulance up and running," said Pantalone. "If we have to bring in private EMS or private agencies that could cost the individual more. We believe the 23 cents per day is way less."

Trustees recognizing the need voted Monday night to place a 2.25 mills levy on the November ballot.

"Costs do go up, inflation goes up, and basically it beats us," said Howland Trustee Chairman Dr. James LaPolla, Jr.

If approved, the tax would generate about $900,000 annually. The cost to the owner of a $100,000 home would be about $6 to $7 more each month.

"We're asking for the people's input. If the people in Howland Township feel they don't want to pay more in a tax or they don't want that increase, they can vote it down. But people in Howland Township in the past have done very well supporting the township," said LaPolla.