The Flandreau City Council voted to accept Moody County’s proposal that would transfer ambulance service assets to the city and begin preparations to provide ambulance service under the timeline discussed in committee.

Mayor Dan opened the discussion, saying the decision was “meaningful” and that councilors had seven months to organize partners and contracts if they accepted the county’s proposal. “A lot of thought has been put into this,” Mayor Dan said.

Council discussion reviewed a committee packet assembled by staff and volunteer committee members. Alderman Yeaton said he believed the city is “capable of managing” ambulance service and moved to accept the county’s offer; Alderman Eckern seconded the motion. Alderman Berkey urged creation of an ambulance district rather than the city taking on long-term responsibility alone, saying such a district would spread costs and ensure stable funding.

The council voted to accept the county’s proposal. Following the vote the mayor said he would send a letter to the county commission that night and that staff would coordinate information sharing with county staff and other local officials. The council discussed near-term costs the city will incur and agreed a hired ambulance director should be sought “ASAP” to assist with the transition and planning.

Discussion vs. direction vs. decision
- Discussion: Committee findings, financial concerns, and local options including an ambulance district were debated. Alderman Berkey cautioned against the city absorbing long-term costs alone.
- Direction/assignment: Mayor Dan said he would draft and send a letter to the county commission; staff were tasked to coordinate with county staff and prepare follow-up materials. Mayor Dan recommended hiring an ambulance director in 2025 to assist the transition.
- Formal action: The council approved a motion to accept Moody County’s ambulance proposal and to proceed with preparatory work toward assuming service under the timeline discussed in the packet.

What happens next
Staff and council members said they would prepare a more formal resolution listing assets to be accepted and the service obligations the city will assume; that resolution is expected at a future council meeting. Staff will present estimated transition costs and potential contract language for partner agencies in coming meetings.