Residents press Carroll County supervisors on EMS staffing and response; board says issue under review

Several citizens used citizens time to urge the board to address what they described as persistent problems with EMS staffing, response and leadership in Carroll County.

Vanessa Vault thanked the board for the opportunity to speak, praised many EMS personnel by name but asked whether the county would consider an emergency‑services director who focuses solely on call volume rather than a combined fire and rescue chief. She said many paramedics will not work under current fire‑service requirements and suggested the county may be losing trained medical personnel as a result. Vault asked whether minutes from recent discussions would be released. Theresa Easter and other residents described instances in which responders had difficulty locating scenes, noted a recent call in which basic life support (BLS) crews lacked the certifications to give needed medicines, and said delays had contributed to serious outcomes for patients.

Nut graf: Citizens described staffing, training and coordination issues that they say are producing delays and limiting care. The board acknowledged the concern, said it is working on EMS issues and scheduled a special meeting to address coverage and recruitment.

Board response and next steps: County staff and board members said minutes and recordings will be posted when available and that a special meeting is planned to examine EMS coverage. Board members expressed appreciation for EMS personnel while acknowledging the need for system improvements; staff was asked to follow up with more information and to provide public updates.

Ending: Citizens urged prompt action and transparency; the board signaled ongoing work, and a special meeting was noted for further discussion.