Commission approves studies of Millard County Jail and EMS to produce objective cost‑benefit data

The Millard County Commission voted to contract with EFG Consulting to prepare benefit‑cost analyses of the county jail and the county EMS/ambulance services.

Commissioners said they want third‑party, objective numbers to support budgeting and to decide whether to continue current operations, build a new jail, or alter EMS service levels. The commission discussed doing only one study (the jail) to save money but ultimately approved both studies to take advantage of a bundled discount and to produce figures that county leaders said they can use in multi‑year financial planning.

Speakers described the jail study’s central questions as whether housing state prisoners is financially beneficial, and whether the county should build a new jail or continue operating the existing facility. Commissioners cited recent facility problems (for example, a collapsed pipe) and said the jail’s condition has been evaluated informally in the past but not with objective third‑party analysis.

Proponents said the EMS and ambulance study would provide data to support negotiations with partner institutions, including local hospitals, and to clarify the county’s financial contribution to ambulance operations. The commission emphasized that EFG’s work would not create policy but would provide recommendations and objective numbers the board can use in future budget decisions.

A motion to approve both studies passed in open session with unanimous “aye” votes. Commissioners directed staff to finalize the consultant scope and to provide requested county financial and operational data to the consultant so the studies can proceed.