Hardee County authorizes financing to buy an ambulance amid debate over budget tradeoffs

County staff and elected officials described a pressing need to add a serviceable ambulance to Hardee County’s fleet because existing backup vehicles are frequently out of service. Staff said an available stock unit can be purchased and put into service quickly if the board authorizes procurement and financing.

Because the current budget did not allow an outright purchase, staff proposed a six‑year payment arrangement through a cooperative procurement program; the county would own the vehicle at the end of the finance term. Staff estimated the annual payment at roughly $67,000–$80,000 and said about $80,000 was budgeted in the EMS line to cover payments. The county attorney advised the board that final financing numbers and procurement details will be brought back for ratification and that the manager’s authorization should include an upper‑limit cap to avoid exceeding budgeted expectations.

Commissioners supported the purchase as urgent public‑safety infrastructure but also pressed for a long‑term capital plan and a rate study to ensure EMS funding sustainability. Several commissioners noted the finance charges the county will pay because of prior budget cuts and urged that future budgets set aside replacement reserves to avoid recurring financing costs.

The board voted unanimously to authorize the County Manager to finance the purchase of an ambulance in an amount not to exceed $480,000 and directed staff to return with procurement and financing details for ratification.