Cleveland EMS raises concerns over inadequate funding from recovered city funds

The Cleveland City Council meeting on June 2, 2025, highlighted critical funding issues within the Emergency Medical Services (EMS) department. A council member expressed concern over the allocation of $19 million recovered from improvements to the EMS building, noting that only 4% of these funds are being directed back to EMS. This raises significant questions about the city's commitment to improving emergency medical services, especially as the department faces numerous unmet needs.

The council member pointed out that while the city has made efforts to address safety concerns, such as the need for a blocker truck with a traffic attenuator, funding remains a persistent challenge. Additionally, there are pressing facility needs, with four ambulances parked outside year-round, even during harsh winter conditions. The council is also working on a community paramedicine program aimed at assisting frequent 911 users, but again, funding is a barrier.

Concerns were also raised about the basic working conditions for paramedics. The council member described how two EMS bases suffered from a sewer pipe explosion, leaving them unable to replace damaged chairs. Paramedics are reportedly using furniture sourced from personal donations, highlighting the lack of resources available for essential equipment and facilities.

The council member emphasized the growing demand for EMS services, stating that while other emergency services have seen peaks in past decades, the need for EMS continues to rise. They urged the council to ensure that funding for EMS aligns with community expectations, as the demand for services is expected to increase further.

The discussion underscored the urgent need for the city to prioritize funding for EMS to meet both current and future demands, ensuring that paramedics have the necessary resources to serve the community effectively.