Emergency Services asks for three EMT positions and $85,000 to replace gas-powered rescue tools

Chief Lee, presenting for Emergency Services, told the commission the department wants to add three firefighter EMT positions this year — the complement discussed last year — to return a third person to Engine 1 after staff were reallocated to an ambulance unit serving the 400 corridor.

"The adding these three additional positions would put that third person back on engine one being that uh that's our second busiest area," Chief Lee said, explaining the staffing change is intended to improve response in a high-demand area. Commissioners confirmed the county has been adding three positions per year as part of a longer staffing plan.

On capital needs, Chief Lee requested replacement of two remaining gas-powered hydraulic rescue tool sets with battery-powered units that use DeWalt batteries. He said the electric tools allow a single responder to ‘‘grab and go’’ and avoid failures he has seen in gas-powered motors; he estimated the cost at about $85,000 for two full sets.

"We're asking to replace the two remaining gas powered hydraulic tools, and it's about $85,000 to replace two sets, two full sets," Chief Lee said. Commissioners asked clarifying questions about which engine crews were affected, whether the new tools would reduce required staffing, and about long-term budget impacts.