The Summit County Council meeting on May 31, 2023, focused heavily on the proposed changes to the emergency medical services (EMS) system, particularly the concept of dynamic deployment. Council members expressed concerns about the current ambulance coverage and the implications of the proposed changes.

One of the primary discussions centered around the effectiveness of dynamic deployment, which some council members viewed as a rebranding of existing practices rather than a substantial improvement. A council member emphasized the need for more ambulances, particularly on the East Side of the county, where a single ambulance is responsible for covering over 500 square miles. This situation raises concerns about response times and overall service adequacy.

The conversation also touched on the financial aspects of the EMS system. A council member questioned the proposed cost of $469,000 for an ambulance, arguing that two ambulances would be necessary to adequately serve the area, leading to a potential cost of nearly $1 million. They suggested that administrative costs could be reduced significantly, indicating that the current model incurs higher expenses than necessary.

Further discussions highlighted the existing capabilities of the local EMS, including the availability of advanced life support (ALS) medications and training programs in collaboration with Park City Medical Center. The council member argued that the local EMS is already equipped to provide high-quality service and that the proposed changes should consider the unique needs of the community.

The meeting concluded with an invitation for public comments, allowing community members to voice their opinions on the EMS system and other agenda items. The council plans to revisit the EMS discussions in future meetings, emphasizing the importance of ensuring adequate emergency services for all residents in Summit County.