County staff told the Executive & Finance Committee that consultants advising on ambulance services require the county to narrow down options before a study can proceed. Staff summarized three potential models: the county continuing to run the service, creation of a new ambulance district to administer the service, or contracting with a third‑party operator.

Board members said funding availability will likely determine which option is feasible. One member noted past study work and that a 2019 consultant proposal had been considered; another said that, because the county already provides broad coverage across Richland County, the county may be further along than other counties on organizational structure.

The committee directed staff to schedule a December meeting with the municipalities served by the county ambulance service so the municipalities can indicate whether they would be willing to create and support a district. Staff said two municipalities have indicated they will likely join and that a third will meet in the coming days; staff noted the current contract for some municipal participation expires Dec. 31.

Committee members emphasized that forming a district would require clear answers about funding sources and how taxes or levies would be used. Staff will return with results from municipal meetings and consultant guidance, and the committee said it expects to continue the discussion in January.