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Lee County public hearing on EMS franchise draws hours of testimony; commissioners schedule work session
Summary
An extensive public hearing on whether to renew or reassign the county's 911 EMS franchise produced hours of testimony from paramedics, firefighters, residents and both bidders (incumbent First Health and Medex). Commissioners voted to postpone action and hold a work session to review the contract on Dec. 19.
Lee County commissioners heard more than three hours of public testimony and provider responses Tuesday as they considered whether to retain First Health as the county's 911 EMS franchise or award the contract to Medex.
Members of the EMS advisory board opened the hearing. "Our decisions were based solely on North Carolina General Statute 153A-250 and the requirements outlined in the RFA," Jessica Miller said, noting the advisory group reviewed vendor proposals, requested follow-up information, and came to a recommendation for the county.
Dozens of public speakers — including county paramedics, volunteer fire chiefs and residents — urged the board to weigh clinical capability and workforce stability as heavily as cost. "What is the value of a life in Lee County?" senior paramedic Natalie Vaughn asked, arguing that First Health has invested in training, equipment and employee…
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