Local EMS discusses competitive pay and increasing service demands amid new development

In a recent budget work session held on May 22, 2025, the Durham County Board of Commissioners (BOCC) engaged in critical discussions surrounding public safety staffing and resource allocation. The meeting, characterized by a collaborative atmosphere, highlighted the challenges faced by the county's Emergency Medical Services (EMS) and the need for strategic planning in response to a growing population.

As the session unfolded, concerns were raised about the hiring processes for EMS personnel. It was noted that while Durham County has a thorough hiring protocol, neighboring jurisdictions, such as Wake County, have adopted less rigorous methods, resulting in higher attrition rates during training. This disparity has led to a competitive wage discussion, as Wake County's starting pay has surpassed Durham's by 40 cents per hour. Commissioners expressed the need to reassess salary structures to attract and retain qualified candidates, especially as the county allocates new positions in the budget.

The conversation also touched on the importance of understanding the broader implications of population growth on EMS services. A commissioner emphasized that the planning process for new developments currently lacks a comprehensive evaluation of their impact on emergency services. This gap could lead to significant expenses related to staffing and equipment, which are crucial for timely emergency responses. The board agreed to collaborate with the planning department to establish a clearer picture of costs associated with new residents and the necessary resources to support them.

Additionally, the meeting addressed the effectiveness of the HEART program, which diverts certain emergency calls to mental health professionals. While there was no concrete data available to measure the program's impact on call volume, there was a consensus that it has likely reduced behavioral health-related calls to EMS. The board expressed interest in obtaining more data to better understand these dynamics.

The session concluded with a focus on community paramedicine initiatives, which have shown promise in addressing social determinants of health. The addition of community paramedics has reportedly improved response times and increased the number of patients served, indicating a positive trend in community health support.

As Durham County navigates these pressing issues, the discussions from the budget work session underscore the importance of proactive planning and collaboration among departments to ensure that public safety remains a top priority amidst growth and change. The board's commitment to revisiting salary structures and enhancing partnerships with planning and health services reflects a forward-thinking approach to meet the needs of the community effectively.