Commission ratifies two intergovernmental agreements for EMT affiliation and regional law-enforcement assistance

Wasco County commissioners on Wednesday approved two intergovernmental agreements (IGAs): an EMT affiliation agreement with Mid Columbia Fire and Rescue for the county’s deputy‑medic program, and a master interlocal law‑enforcement assistance agreement among several Oregon counties and cities and tribal and state partners.

Sheriff Lane (presenting) described the EMT affiliation IGA as part of the county’s deputy‑medic program and said Mid Columbia Fire and Rescue provides training and certification that the county needs to maintain EMT qualifications for deputies. The agreement reflects an administrative update following a change in Mid Columbia leadership and was described as an effort to keep EMT certification services in place.

The board also approved a master interlocal law‑enforcement assistance agreement that covers Wasco County, the City of The Dalles, Hood River County and City, Sherman County, Klickitat County and several Washington jurisdictions, the Oregon State Police, and tribal officers. Sheriff Lane said the agreement facilitates cross-border investigative and tactical cooperation, includes tribal partners, and will be updated to ensure Washington State police and tribal police are listed on the signature page. Commissioners amended the motion on the record to include tribal policing partners and Washington agencies where needed.

Both motions passed unanimously. Commissioners praised law‑enforcement cooperation and noted long-standing mutual-aid arrangements among local agencies.