Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Emergency Services Funding topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Commissioners table RETAC EMS funding decision after heated exchange over allocation
Summary
A RETAC application and the division of emergency funding prompted extended debate; local EMS leaders said past allocations favored Spanish Peaks, and the board agreed to a workshop to pursue a fairer, documented approach and to confirm submission deadlines.
Commissioners heard extended testimony from local EMS and fire-district representatives about a RETAC grant application submitted on behalf of the Bermuda Farm Protection District (Southern Colorado Auto ReTech). Speakers said the RETAC application form available on the RETAC website showed older dates and caused confusion; they also said past allocations have favored one provider (Spanish Peaks) and left smaller agencies underfunded.
Dave Mallard and other volunteer-agency representatives described operational needs (suspension work on an ambulance and other maintenance) and said the requested upgrade will extend vehicle service life. Multiple EMS speakers noted that seasonal population surges increase call volume and wear on volunteer fleets, and requested a fair split of county-allocated RETAC funds.
Matthew Whitley and other EMS leaders offered operational context, including that many calls do not result in transport revenue and that vehicle wear and transfers contribute heavily to fleet costs. Commissioners and EMS representatives agreed to meet and assess needs together; staff and commissioners committed to setting a workshop and checking RETAC submission deadlines.
After discussion the board moved and passed a motion to table the RETAC-related decision until after coordination with EMS agencies and RETAC coordinators. The item will return for action after the scheduled workshop.
