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Local rescue squads press supervisors for funding; board approves $40,000 for volunteer squad and later rescinds funding for another provider
Summary
Public commenters described ambulance staffing shortages, outdated equipment and billing problems. The board approved a $40,000 emergency appropriation for a volunteer rescue squad but later voted to rescind funding to Saint Charles Rescue due to unresolved operational concerns; the board requested follow‑up.
Several public commenters told the Lee County Board of Supervisors on Oct. 21 that volunteer rescue services are strained by equipment failures, staffing shortages and billing disputes.
Jimmy Killian, representing Saint Charles Rescue Squad, described short staffing, recalled cardiac monitors and ambulances lacking equipment needed to pass state inspection. "We don't have anything to put back. All of our stock has been depleted or ran out of date," he said, urging the board to intervene and offering to meet with county staff.
Administrators reported a formal request from "Toms Worker Rescue Squad" for $40,000 to maintain 24/7 service in District 1 through the upcoming quarter. The board approved the $40,000 request by motion during department reports.
Later in the meeting, after further discussion about billing and operational oversight, a motion was brought to rescind county funding for Saint Charles Rescue Squad pending additional information; the board voted in favor of that motion. Supervisors asked staff to provide further details and to confer with squads about standards, billing practices and documentation before any future disbursements.
What happens next: County staff will follow up with local rescue squads on documentation, billing and equipment needs and will report back to the board; any future funding requests will be considered with that additional information.
