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Waushara County public safety leaders say EMS and communications budgets stable; maintenance and staffing pressures noted
Summary
County public-safety committee heard EMS and communications reports saying most budget lines are 'in the green' while maintenance costs (station repairs, generators) and some staffing vacancies could push specific maintenance categories over budget; committee approved a resolution recognizing communications officers as first responders.
The Waushara County Public Safety Committee on Monday heard updates from EMS and the county communications center reporting generally healthy budgets but localized maintenance overruns and ongoing recruitment needs. Committee members approved a resolution recognizing public safety communications officers as first responders.
An EMS representative told the committee that billing statistics for the last month were not yet available, but that operational budgets are “in the green” overall. The representative said maintenance spending for four stations — including generator work — is expected to exceed budgeted maintenance lines and that the department currently has one open position and four staff pursuing paramedic certification.
Communications staff reported participation in the state EMPG work group and said changes to the federal/state allocation formula could direct an estimated $5,000 to $20,000 more to counties with large seasonal populations. Communications staff also described work on radio-code updates tied to a prior radio grant, a nearly complete strategic plan developed with Tim Barude of W Extension, and state-funded training opportunities the county hopes to host. The communications center remains budgeted under the sheriff’s office through 2026 and the county plans to separate it into its own line in 2027.
The committee unanimously approved a resolution recognizing Waushara County public-safety communications officers as first responders after a motion from Urban and a second from Peterman. No additional funding or policy changes were attached to the resolution.
Committee members asked follow-up questions about timing of grant awards and training schedules; communications staff clarified that some grants have been awarded but funds are pending disbursement.
