Jefferson County commissioners approved a one-year ambulance service agreement at $319,176 to maintain emergency medical service coverage while local EMS capacity expands.

Why it matters: County leaders said the contract helps guarantee ambulance responses in areas of Jefferson County now receiving fewer calls from the county provider after regional changes in service. County staff and ambulance leadership said the cost helps sustain roughly one to two ambulance responses locally each day and covers a share of operating costs.

What was said: The ambulance chief told commissioners the Central Plain District’s ambulance operations had reduced the county’s call volume by roughly half — from about 1,000-plus calls in earlier years to about 500 calls — while still noting that Jefferson County comprises roughly 3.6% of the service area’s call volume. The chief said operating an ambulance costs “$750 to $780,000 to run our ambulance service” (per unit per year) and that the county was asking for “a renewed contract at the same amount, $319,716.”

Board action: Commissioners moved and seconded a motion to approve the ambulance service agreement with the City of Bridal Falls Ambulance (as listed in the meeting packet) for $319,176. During the roll call, Commissioner Benjamin Burke recorded “Aye,” and Commissioner Benjamin Greenberg recorded “Aye.” County staff and ambulance representatives agreed to prepare final copies for signatures.

Context and next steps: Commissioners and staff discussed regional EMS taxing districts and the county’s position as one of the last jurisdictions to adopt an EMS taxing district. Staff indicated the county will prepare contract copies for signature and continue coordinating with regional partners as local ALS (advanced life support) capacity is expanded.