Laurel police seek $233,497 radio upgrade as ambulance reports average delays near 37 minutes

Police Chief Jarred Anglin and Ambulance Chief Lyndy Gurchiek gave operational updates to the City of Laurel Emergency Services Committee on March 23.

Anglin reported 777 calls in the reporting period (2,149 YTD), 100 crimes reported with five arrests and 63 charges filed, and said the department is pursuing an equipment overhaul. He described a total radio-system upgrade quote of $233,497; Cpt. Brew is working on grant applications to fund the project. The department also said it recently purchased a 40 mm launcher that fires bean bags as a nonlethal option and is awaiting word on a Department of Homeland Security grant for Toughbooks. Anglin said patrol shifts are working alternating AM and PM coverage on Southside to monitor school turnaround points.

Lyndy Gurchiek, Ambulance Chief, reported 97 service requests in the month, that the new ambulance is now in front-line service, and that the crew completed required recertifications. The ambulance report listed three missed calls for the month (3 percent), a shortest delay of 24 minutes and an average delay of about 37 minutes. The ambulance team has applied for appropriations and other grants after a meeting with Congressman Troy Downing.

Committee members did not take formal action on equipment purchases or grants during the meeting. Members and chiefs discussed grant eligibility challenges tied to proximity to the Billings municipality and again raised the departments’ desire for a dedicated city grant-writer to improve success rates.

The committee approved the Feb. 23 minutes 5-0 earlier in the meeting.