Council approves Stryker service contract for fire and EMS equipment maintenance

The New Carlisle City Council meeting on June 16, 2025, focused on several key issues, including the introduction of new ordinances and a significant service contract for emergency medical equipment maintenance.

One of the main topics discussed was Ordinance 2025-23, which authorizes a service contract with Stryker for the maintenance and repair of fire and EMS equipment. This contract is crucial as it provides a premium maintenance program for essential medical devices, including Lifepak 15 defibrillators, cots, load systems, and power stair chairs. The council highlighted the importance of this contract, noting that it includes biannual comprehensive checks of the equipment and free replacement of lithium batteries.

During the discussion, council members emphasized the financial benefits of the contract. For instance, the replacement cost of a single Lifepak module can range from $8,000 to $10,000, while a load system track replacement could cost around $10,000. The Lifepak 15 itself is valued at approximately $69,000, and the cots range from $23,000 to $40,000. The council concluded that the maintenance contract, while appearing costly, ultimately saves the city significant amounts in potential replacement costs.

The meeting also included a brief overview of the Lifepak 15's capabilities, which include automatic blood pressure readings, heart rhythm monitoring, and the ability to perform EKGs and defibrillation. This advanced equipment is vital for emergency medical services, allowing for critical interventions during transport to hospitals.

In conclusion, the council's approval of the service contract with Stryker underscores the city's commitment to maintaining high standards in emergency medical services while managing costs effectively. The next steps will involve implementing the contract and ensuring that all equipment is regularly maintained to support the community's health and safety needs.