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Hart County approves 12‑hour EMS day truck, buys off‑road gators to improve response
Summary
The commission approved a new daytime EMS truck (7 a.m.–7 p.m.) to cover peak call volume, and authorized purchases of two John Deere side‑by‑side utility vehicles (gators) under state contract to aid rescues and access at remote sites and events.
The Hart County Board of Commissioners on July 22 approved a 12‑hour EMS day truck to operate from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. to cover the county’s highest call volumes and to relieve 24‑hour crews. EMS Director Mike Adams told the board the service is intended to reduce fatigue among existing staff and provide coverage for growing call volume. "We're short staffed, running 400 every 440 calls a month. It's not gonna slow down," Adams said.
Why it matters: EMS leaders said the county’s call volume has been rising and crews are stretched; the day truck is intended to improve response during the busiest hours and make it easier to staff substations. Commissioners voted 5‑0 to authorize the program.
The board also approved two side‑by‑side utility vehicles (John Deere Gators) purchased under an existing state contract: one for EMS to use at events and in locations inaccessible to full ambulances, and a second for Parks (Plains Creek) as a replacement. County staff asked the board to suspend the purchasing policy to complete the EMS gator purchase under the state contract; the commission approved the suspension and the purchases by unanimous vote. Adams said the vehicle can carry a stretcher/board and is intended for rescues in areas where full ambulance access is restricted.
Operational details: The day truck will be staffed subject to hiring availability; the department reported it currently is short three paramedics. Adams said the 12‑hour schedule may attract staff who do not want 24‑hour shifts and that retired personnel could be recruited. The gator purchases will use a state contract price; staff said specifications will accommodate patient carrying and required equipment.
Next steps: EMS will proceed with staffing plans for the day truck and finalize specifications and procurement for the gators under the state contract; the board instructed staff to proceed and said the purchases and staffing plan will be tracked by administration.
