Mitchell County probes potential sale of Mitchell Medics after staff raise concerns
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Summary
County leaders discussed reports that a private firm, Priority Services, planned to acquire a stake in Mitchell Medics, the county's contracted EMS provider; staff worried about benefit and operational changes and the board asked staff and legal counsel to review options under the existing contract.
Mitchell County commissioners opened a discussion after receiving notice that Priority Services had expressed interest in buying into Mitchell Medics, the private company that provides contracted emergency medical services in the county.
County staff said they had reached out to the owner of Mitchell Medics, identified in the meeting as Craig Sullivan, to inquire about the proposed change. The county manager said staff also met with Mitchell Medics employees, who expressed concern that a corporate buyer would alter benefits, HR and administrative practices.
The manager told the board that the owner confirmed Priority Services had explored a purchase but that, following conversations with other counties, the owner appeared to have “abandoned the idea” for now. Commissioners said they were troubled by how the matter surfaced on social media before the board was notified and by staff and employee uncertainty.
Contract terms and next steps
County staff noted the current contract with Mitchell Medics includes a 180-day notice provision for termination by either party and language allowing the county to purchase vehicles under certain conditions. Commissioners discussed that any formal termination or change in the contract would require written notice and likely a board resolution.
Commissioners asked staff and the county attorney to gather contract details, confirm employees’ rights under existing agreements, and report back. No formal action to terminate or replace the contract was taken at the meeting; the board directed staff to pursue additional information and legal review.
Why it matters: EMS continuity affects emergency response for Mitchell County residents and county leaders said they want to protect staffing, benefits and local service reliability amid any ownership change.
Attributions and local reaction
- County Manager (presentation): described outreach to the Mitchell Medics owner and meetings with employees. - Commissioners (remarks): several said they were angered that news of a potential sale appeared on Facebook before the board was informed and urged a prompt staff/attorney review.
Outcome
The board did not vote to terminate the contract. Commissioners instructed staff to collect contract documents, consult the county attorney and report findings at a future meeting; they also discussed possible timelines under the contract's 180-day notice provision.
