The Pulaski County Quorum Court convened on September 9, 2025, to discuss several key agenda items, primarily focusing on funding and service agreements for local emergency medical services.
The meeting began with a discussion on the allocation of state funds for the juvenile detention facility. Members emphasized the importance of ensuring that the funds are appropriately directed towards essential services such as clothing, education, and counseling for the youth in the facility. Following this discussion, a vote was called on Ordinance 2561, which passed with 14 votes in favor and one member voting present. This ordinance will now proceed to the full court with a recommendation for approval.
Next, the court addressed Ordinance 2562, which authorizes the Pulaski County judge to enter into an interlocal agreement with the City of Little Rock. This agreement allows Metropolitan Emergency Medical Services (MEMS) to continue providing services to residents in unincorporated areas of Pulaski County for an additional five years, extending the contract from October 2025 to October 2030. Justice Capps highlighted that MEMS has been the service provider since 1995 and noted that there would be no cost increase associated with this renewal.
Questions arose regarding whether the county had considered bidding out the services, to which it was clarified that MEMS operates as the Little Rock Ambulance Authority and that the renewal does not require a bidding process. Several justices expressed their support for MEMS, citing improvements in service since the previous arrangements.
The vote on Ordinance 2562 concluded with unanimous support, passing with 15 votes in favor. This ordinance will also move forward to the full court with a recommendation for approval.
The meeting continued with the introduction of Ordinance 2563, although details on this item were not provided in the transcript. Overall, the discussions reflected a commitment to maintaining and enhancing emergency services in Pulaski County, ensuring that residents receive the necessary support and care.