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Council approves county interlocal to fund PFAS-free response gear for Medic 1 paramedics
Summary
Council approved an interlocal agreement to fund PFAS-free turnout/response gear for 46 paramedics (Medic 1 fund) at an estimated cost of about $84,000; the agreement covers employees funded by the Medic 1 fund and complements city general-fund purchases approved in 2024.
The Bellingham City Council approved an interlocal agreement with Whatcom County to fund PFAS-free response gear for paramedics paid through the Medic 1 fund. Council Member Dan Hamill, chair of the Public Health, Safety, Justice & Equity committee, said the city had previously approved general-fund purchases for PFAS-free gear during 2024; the interlocal provides County EMS funding to cover employees supported by the Medic 1 fund.
The budget item covers about $84,000 and would outfit 46 paramedics; the gear was ordered in 2024 and delivery and distribution are expected in the second quarter of 2025. The committee voted to approve the interlocal and the council recorded the motion as passed 7-0.
Hamill said the change reduces health risks to fire department employees by eliminating PFAS-containing materials in response gear. The interlocal was presented as a funding alignment to ensure all covered employees receive PFAS-free equipment regardless of their payroll funding source.
