Scott County officials are taking proactive steps to ensure the reliability of their emergency services fleet following a significant transmission failure in one of their ambulances. During the recent Commissioners Meeting on December 6, 2024, it was reported that a truck, which had previously undergone a motor replacement earlier this year, experienced a terminal failure in its transmission. The truck is currently out of service, prompting immediate action from the department.

The responsible official detailed the situation, explaining that funds were reallocated from other budget lines to facilitate the urgent purchase of a new transmission. The truck has since been repaired and returned, but officials are exercising caution by not immediately placing it back into full service. Instead, they plan to conduct thorough testing, including driving the vehicle for approximately 100 to 150 miles to ensure its reliability before re-equipping it for emergency use.

Concerns were raised about the potential risks of using the truck for non-emergency transfers, particularly if it were to break down while returning to the county. To mitigate this risk, officials are considering having paramedics drive the vehicle during their downtime to further assess its performance.

In addition to addressing the truck's issues, the meeting also covered financial updates. The department reported a positive financial outlook, with current figures showing an increase of $350,000 compared to the previous year. This financial stability is crucial as the department prepares for upcoming appropriations and funding requests, including several resolutions related to the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA).

Overall, the meeting highlighted the county's commitment to maintaining a reliable emergency services fleet while ensuring fiscal responsibility. As officials move forward with their plans, the community can expect continued improvements in emergency response capabilities.