L’ANSE — The Baraga County Board approved the “all-device” local surcharge presented by the Baraga E911 committee.

The board held a special hearing prior to the board meeting for community members to hear about the surcharge and ask questions.

The 911 committee members said the department was barely breaking even and getting the extra money will help with much-needed radios and other equipment upgrades.

Community members were able to get a better understanding of the surcharge and how it will affect them. They ultimately agreed it wasn’t a huge difference and were ok with it.

The surcharge, which was presented at the board’s March meeting, will be an additional 42 cents amounting to $5.04 a year for each phone line, cell and landline.

“If that saves one life it’s well worth it,” said commissioner Mike Koskinen, before the board voted to approve the surcharge.