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Finney County updates EMS–fire partnership; new MOU adds emergency vehicle operations
Summary
The Board approved an updated memorandum of understanding between Finney County EMS and the Garden City Fire Department that codifies expanded assistance and emergency vehicle operations; EMS director reported staffing gains and the EMS building opening July 1.
The Finney County Board of County Commissioners on June 16 approved an updated memorandum of understanding between Finney County Emergency Medical Services and the Garden City Fire Department that formalizes ongoing operational cooperation and adds emergency vehicle operations to the agreement.
The update continues the arrangement that began in October 2021, when the board first authorized shared response protocols because of high call volume and low EMS staffing. Kenny Smith, director of Finney County EMS, told commissioners that Garden City Fire Department personnel have assisted on “code blues” and other life‑threatening calls and have at times provided certified personnel to render patient care in ambulances and non‑certified personnel to drive ambulances when needed. The updated MOU clarifies training and coverage expectations and adds provisions about emergency vehicle operations so assisting personnel are covered while driving ambulances.
Why it matters: The MOU aims to reduce response delays when ambulance crews are committed by allowing trained fire department staff to augment or back up EMS units and to perform specified vehicle operations in high‑demand periods. The board authorized the chair to sign the agreement.
Operational context and staffing update: Smith also presented an operational report. He said the agency is commonly staffing two ambulances per day and that six new hires (two full‑time, four part‑time/reserve) were beginning the next week, with additional candidates in certification queues. Smith said the reserve squad remains important to cover absences and that the MOU with the fire department remains a key part of surge coverage.
EMS building and public event: Smith said the public grand opening and move‑in for the new combined EMS/fire facility is scheduled for July 1, with a walk‑through and brief remarks around 11 a.m.; the agency plans a come‑and‑go open house from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. He said the new facility is funded in part by a sales tax program established by voters and that building punch‑list work was in its final stages.
Ending: The board approved the MOU by motion; staff will execute the agreement and return copies to the board. Smith and county staff will continue to report recruiting progress and operational metrics to the commissioners.
