Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Ems Funding topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Randolph County EMS warns of $1.5–$2 million shortfall, urges funding options
Summary
Randolph County EMS told commissioners it faces a projected $1.5–$2 million shortfall after losing about $1 million related to the Davis Medical Center contract and asked the county to consider an ordinance, a levy or a user fee to sustain operations.
Kurt Gainer, speaking for Randolph County EMS, told the County Commission on Feb. 19 that the ambulance authority is facing a severe operating shortfall and asked the county to consider local funding options.
Gainer said the authority runs about 8,000 calls annually, employs 37 full‑time and 30 part‑time staff, operates 12 ambulances as a 501(c)(3) and relies largely on insurance reimbursements. "We are going to be 1.5 to 2 million dollars short this year," Gainer said, adding that the loss of the Davis Medical Center contract reduced revenue by roughly $1 million.
Gainer outlined three local funding options permitted under West Virginia law: a county ordinance similar to the fire fee, a levy, or an amusement tax, and offered documentation for the Commission to review. He cited Tucker County's user‑fee ordinance as an example that has helped neighboring services stabilize staffing and add units.
Commissioners asked follow‑up questions about service impacts and potential coverage gaps. Commissioner David Kesling said the county legislature provided no emergency funding this year and that, without local action, the EMS could cut staff or close stations; Commissioner Chris Siler said a consumer user fee is unpopular but may be necessary to preserve service. The Commission agreed to consult the County Commissioners Association for guidance before deciding on any specific measure.
