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Commissioners weigh options as Ottawa County EMS struggles with low wages and operating losses
Summary
Commissioners discussed EMS sustainability, noting Bennington EMS ran at a loss in 2023–2025 and that neighboring cities sometimes cover administrative and health‑care costs. Commissioners asked staff for follow‑up on funding options and whether to pursue a county‑wide EMS model.
Commissioner Carla Grund presented a survey of local ambulance services and raised concerns about long‑term sustainability, saying Bennington EMS operated at a loss in 2023, 2024 and 2025 and that wages appear ‘‘very low’’ compared with neighboring jurisdictions. Grund told the commission she had discussed administrative arrangements with Minneapolis and Bennington and that Minneapolis has at times provided cash‑flow support for equipment purchases.
The discussion focused on funding, ownership and staffing models. Commissioners discussed that Bennington Fire currently handles building, utilities and property insurance and owns two ambulances, and that Bennington EMS is part of the Bennington Fire Department. Grund asked how the county could sustain EMS long term and whether a county‑wide service should be considered; the commission treated her presentation as preliminary information to guide next steps. Commissioner Duane Morris and other commissioners requested additional budget comparisons and follow‑up analysis from staff before any formal decision.
The exchange produced no formal motion to change EMS governance during the meeting; commissioners directed staff to continue research and bring detailed options and financial implications back for a future agenda.
