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Sumter County reports improved EMS staffing after partnership with private provider; residents press county for Highway 76/378 safety help
Summary
Public Safety Committee reported that a supplemental contract with Guardian Ambulance Service has reduced EMS vacancies from 34 to 10 and kept at least seven ambulances in service daily; community members asked the county for funding to help a streetside store and transit access on Highway 76/378.
Sumter County’s Public Safety Committee reported improved emergency medical services capacity after the county began contracting supplemental ambulances with a private provider. Committee Chair Councilman Carlton B. Washington told the council on Sept. 13 that EMS staffing and morale have improved since the arrangement began April 1, 2022.
EMS Director Mr. Hingst said the county reduced open positions from 34 to 10 and has not operated fewer than seven ambulances per day since the supplemental service began. He told council the county currently requires a paramedic on roughly 49% of calls and described a local surge in interest in paramedic training: 11 county employees were enrolled in two Paramedic classes at Pee Dee Regional EMS (three expected to finish in November 2022; eight expected to finish in October 2023). Staff described a plan to use additional Quick Response Vehicles with paramedics to cover calls that require higher‑level care.
The Public Safety Committee also reviewed neighborhood safety concerns on Highway 76/378. Community representatives Gwen Padmore and Dr. Brenda Williams said residents on North Pike Road face hazards crossing the highway and have sought transit access and retail options on the north side of Pike to reduce dangerous crossings. Padmore requested a $15,000 county donation to help fund a community store; Dr. Williams said she is working with Family Unit, Sumter SDA Church and Santee Wateree Regional Transportation Authority (SWRTA) to pursue bus fare and route solutions. Committee Chair Washington said county staff will consult with the City of Sumter and review recommendations.
Council members also discussed private roads and rural infrastructure needs; staff and the county attorney were asked to review options and bring recommendations to the Public Works Committee or appropriate committee for follow‑up.
