Council approves finance ordinance funding new city ambulance service, transfers from casino fund

The Evansville Common Council on Sept. 8 adopted an amended finance ordinance (F-2025-10) authorizing transfers and appropriations across multiple city funds, including a $5.5 million interfund transfer from the casino fund to buy ambulances and startup equipment for a new city-operated emergency medical services program. The ordinance passed by roll call, 6-1.

The ordinance bundles multiple budget moves and one-time appropriations. The council and city staff described key items that will be funded if the ordinance takes effect: an allocation to purchase 11 ambulances and related equipment (cots, stair chairs, power-load systems and Lifepak 35 cardiac monitors), startup supplies and ambulance outfitting; $125,000 from an opioid unrestricted fund for training and related police uses; reimbursement and appropriations tied to a Community Crossroads grant ($1.3 million reported as a reimbursement); a $1.8 million interfund transfer to police to complete a bond-bank loan for approximately 21 police vehicles; and various smaller transfers for animal control, HAZMAT cleanup reimbursements,…