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Council hears updates on STAR EMS contract status and reopens senior chore program applications
Summary
Council members asked the administration to formalize STAR EMS’s relationship with the city after the contractor operated on an expired agreement; the council also heard that a new round of senior chore program applications is open for spring/summer services.
Council members asked the administration on Feb. 18 to clarify STAR EMS’s contractual status and urged a prompt written agreement to confirm STAR EMS’s role providing emergency medical transports that serve Pontiac residents.
Council members and public safety subcommittee participants said STAR EMS has provided coordinated emergency medical response alongside police and fire and that the company has continued to operate “on good faith” despite an expired contract. Council members asked administration lawyers to confirm whether a written agreement is required to recognize STAR EMS as a service provider operating in the city, even if the company bills for transports rather than receiving city funds.
Separately, the administration announced a new application round for the city’s senior chore program, focused on spring and summer tasks such as yard work and other household chores. Officials said the program uses grant‑funded outside contractors to clear sidewalks and perform chores at participating seniors’ private residences; it is distinct from DPW snow‑plowing of public streets. The city will return data on how many households participated in the winter round and which contractor(s) performed the work.
Why it matters: STAR EMS provides front‑line emergency transport and coordination; the council wants a clear legal framework to protect residents and clarify billing and liability. The senior chore program helps homebound seniors with seasonal maintenance and reduces hazards related to unshoveled walkways.
Next steps: The administration will seek a legal opinion on whether a written municipal agreement is required for STAR EMS and will provide council with participation numbers and vendor details for the senior chore program.
