Bonner County commissioners discuss ambulance district staffing, levy options and outside review; hearing set on EMS billing rates

Bonner County commissioners used part of their business meeting to discuss continuing problems in the county ambulance district, including staffing shortfalls, potential funding options and the need for an external review of operations.

Commissioner Williams said a public hearing on proposed increases to EMS billing rates is scheduled for Dec. 19. Williams also said she is exploring whether a levy override is an available option for the community to consider as the county evaluates ambulance funding and staffing. The board heard that an external partner will be engaged to perform an investigation or audit into how the district arrived at its current condition and to provide a platform for staff and community members to submit information confidentially.

Williams said she is meeting with local ambulance partners — including Clark Fork Ambulance — to gather information. The board discussed the need for improved internal controls in the clerk’s office to ensure foregone revenue and reminder processes are tracked and elevated earlier in the budget process.

No formal motions were made on these broader ambulance-district items at the meeting; commissioners said they would return with specific proposals. Williams asked that community members continue to submit emails and input. The board also noted that interviews for EMS-board openings will be scheduled now that applications have closed.

Ending

The board directed staff to pursue an external review and to report back with findings and recommendations; a public hearing on EMS billing rates is scheduled for Dec. 19.