Interim Director Robbins outlines EMS staffing changes to enhance ambulance service

During the recent Dickinson City Council meeting held on August 20, 2025, significant discussions centered around restructuring the Emergency Medical Services (EMS) department. The proposed changes aim to enhance operational efficiency and improve ambulance availability in the community.

Interim EMS Director Captain Robbins, alongside his team, presented a plan to eliminate three captain positions within the department. This restructuring will streamline the command hierarchy, leaving a director, an administrative assistant, and one lieutenant per shift, totaling 14 employees. The new structure is designed to facilitate the operation of a second ambulance more frequently, which is expected to reduce reliance on mutual aid services and ultimately lower costs.

The council members engaged in a detailed dialogue regarding the financial implications of the changes. Concerns were raised about the costs associated with staffing a second ambulance, particularly regarding the operational budget. The interim director explained that while the initial costs might appear high, the long-term savings from increased ambulance availability and reduced mutual aid expenses would justify the investment.

The meeting also highlighted the ongoing recruitment efforts to fill vacant EMT positions, with hopes of hiring additional staff to ensure adequate coverage. The EMS team is optimistic that these changes will lead to improved service delivery and better response times for the community.

In conclusion, the restructuring of the EMS department represents a proactive approach by the Dickinson City Council to address the growing demands for emergency services. As the council moves forward with these changes, the community can anticipate enhanced emergency response capabilities in the near future. Further discussions and evaluations will be necessary to monitor the effectiveness of this new organizational structure and its impact on service delivery.