County leaders debate buying five ambulances as EMS future hangs on Highlander participation

Commissioner Jason Sharp said Floyd County needs to stabilize emergency medical services and recommended buying five ambulances to support a county-run system. "They want to provide the people of this county with top quality clinical care," Sharp said, arguing for a fiscally responsible model under county oversight.

EMS consultant Jeff Dickson told the board that purchases can proceed now and still allow a shift to a fire-based model later if statutory requirements are met. "If they buy the ambulances now and can shift on a dime from County based EMS to a fire base, as long as statutorily the stakeholders in the territory and Highlander meet the statutory requirements to form the new territory by March 31 to take effect January 1, 2027," Dickson said. He urged moving forward to avoid service gaps.

Several commissioners and council members raised concerns about Highlander Fire District's intentions. Commissioner Frank Loop said Highlander has not responded to a requested letter of intent and warned against purchasing ambulances if Highlander will not join. Council member Jim Freiberger said Highlander has performed well and questioned the justification for increased taxpayer costs.

No formal appropriation or purchase vote was recorded at the Jan. 16 meeting. Discussion centered on whether the county should proceed with purchasing ambulances immediately or wait for firm commitments from Highlander and other stakeholders. Staff noted a hold exists on five ambulances but did not present a finalized funding plan; council and commissioners will return to the topic in future meetings.