Dickinson County approves equipment and medical supplies for community paramedicine vehicle

Dickinson County commissioners voted to accept a bid to outfit a community paramedicine vehicle and separately approved medical supplies for that vehicle during their regular meeting. Both purchases are funded by a grant and passed by voice vote.

The commission approved a bid to outfit the vehicle as an emergency response vehicle, including emergency lighting, decals and radio antennas. Commissioners said the bid was below the amount set aside: the county had budgeted $22,000 for the outfit but the accepted bid totaled $17,900, representing about a $4,000 savings. The vendor identified in the meeting materials was Superior Emergency Response Vehicles.

Commissioners also approved a separate purchase of the medical equipment and supplies that will be carried on the vehicle. The supplies list included items such as an IV pump and suction units. The commission had budgeted $12,500 for supplies; the director reported the purchase would cost $10,430.41, leaving unspent grant funds.

Officials said the purchases are grant-funded and not paid for with county tax revenue. County staff noted the vehicle is already in county possession but cannot go into service until the emergency equipment and medical supplies are installed.

Both motions were made and seconded and approved by voice vote; the meeting record shows only an aye voice vote and does not include a roll-call tally. The motion to accept the outfit bid was moved by Commissioner Rodney (last name not provided) and seconded by another commissioner; the motion to approve supplies and equipment was similarly moved and seconded and approved.

County administrators said the procurement approach favored finding a used vehicle and leveraging grant funds to limit county spending. Commissioners said acting while prices are stable reduced the risk of future cost increases.