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Leavenworth County budgets show modest EMS and health department reductions as reimbursements rise
Summary
County staff presented EMS and health department budgets showing small overall reductions driven by retirements and turnover, while proposed reimbursement revenue increased (EMS ~$400,000; licensed daycare award $55,169) and capital needs for ambulances remain a priority.
Mr. Reed, the county director presenting the EMS and health department budgets, said the two budgets are both down overall this year because of staff turnover and several retirements, but that reimbursement revenue is higher than initially projected.
Reed told commissioners that the EMS budget reflects a $63,198 reduction from last year driven largely by personnel changes, even as the county increased proposed EMS reimbursement revenue by about $400,000 to help close gaps created by backlogged billing and improved insurance collections. He emphasized maintaining the capital-improvement plan for ambulances and standardized onboard equipment, arguing that purchases should be coordinated so all units have the same gear.
The presentation also noted operational changes after the county stopped regularly responding to some Fort Leavenworth calls. Reed said reduced mutual-aid runs lower collections but also reduce variable costs such as mileage; readiness needs — including a five-ambulance fleet and consistent equipment across vehicles — remain unchanged.
On the health department side, Reed said turnover and the elimination of a nursing position account for about $45,000 in savings. He also reported an updated reimbursement award for licensed daycare: staff had budgeted $45,000 but were notified they will receive $55,169. Reed said grants and other external funding account for roughly $903,204 of the department's revenue mix.
Commissioners asked about the durability of personnel savings, noting that newer hires will likely seek raises in subsequent years. Reed acknowledged that hiring less-senior staff produces near-term savings but that salary pressures can increase later. Commissioners praised the health department’s pandemic response and ongoing leadership during public comment.
The administrator flagged that the budget presentation remains a working document and that departments will continue to refine line items as the county prepares multiple budget scenarios for the board’s review.
The commission asked staff to return with finalized scenario packets in early July; no formal votes were taken at the session.
