Douglas County commissioners review Lawrence Douglas County Fire Medical governance, service levels

Lawrence Douglas County Fire Medical leaders briefed the Douglas County Board of County Commissioners during a Jan. 22, 2025 work session on plans to update the joint governance agreement with the City of Lawrence, the department’s service-level benchmarks and operational staffing.

The presentation, given by acting Fire Chief Joe Hardy and interim chief of staff Mackenzie Zell, reviewed LDC FM’s history since the 1997 merger of the Lawrence Fire Department and the Douglas County ambulance service, and outlined performance targets, accreditation findings and budget and governance questions that county commissioners said should guide the next contract period.

“We have a currently have a 3 year agreement with the city of Lawrence for the joint op governance of Lawrence Douglas County Fire Medical,” Sarah (county staff) told the commission as the governance committee explained why the agreement is under review. “We thought it was important to check‑in with both governing bodies and try to get some feedback because ultimately, you will be brought these agreements for approval.”

“I am Joe Hardy, the acting fire chief for LDC FM,” Hardy said while presenting the department’s history and operational structure. Mackenzie Zell introduced staffing and performance data and noted the department’s accreditation and compliance obligations.

Why it matters: LDC…