Ambulance and communications: county explores new defibrillators, autopulse and awaits radio tower completion

EMS staff told the commission they are reviewing replacement options for defibrillators after manufacturers indicated older units are no longer serviceable. Budget estimates presented to commissioners included a primary unit price (brand/model packet supplied) and optional maintenance plans; staff highlighted line items they consider nonessential (extra pediatric pads, extended on-site service) to reduce cost. EMS asked the commission to consider grant or partial funding sources before committing to a purchase expected to be a significant capital expense.

Staff also raised the automatic CPR device discussion: the county currently has an older device that staff do not favor; automatic devices on the market use different compression methods and purchase-plus-maintenance costs were reviewed.

On communications, county staff and EMS discussed an outstanding radio/tower project facilitated by a regional contractor. Staff said the project stalled because federal FCC coordination on the tower site needed mapping and paperwork; contractors and county staff said that issue has been addressed and completion is expected once the tower foundation cures and equipment is installed. Commissioners reiterated long-standing concerns that radios intermittently fail in some areas, and asked engineering and dispatch partners to verify coverage after the tower is activated; Nemont and other microwave/backup paths were discussed as contingency options.

Ending: EMS will continue to seek grants and pricing options for defibrillators and autopulse devices; county staff will coordinate with radio vendors and regional partners to confirm completion schedule and to test radio coverage once the tower is on-line.