Future of Ambulance Service in Chickasaw County Remains Murky

The future of ambulance service in Chickasaw County remains uncertain.

In a joint meeting between the Chickasaw County Board of Supervisors and the Chickasaw Ambulance Council Tuesday night, the possibility of a county-run ambulance service was discussed, but nothing definitive was decided on proceeding with the venture.

Monday, supervisors came to a consensus to utilize American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds for startup costs. Supervisor Chair Matthew Kuhn advised the council Tuesday night that the clock is ticking on the availability of ARPA money to the county.

County Auditor Stephanie Mashek presented preliminary numbers for startup costs for a county-run ambulance.

One possible new revenue source could be coming if Emergency Medical Services (EMS) is voted as an essential service by taxpayers in Chickasaw County, which would allow the county to levy a county-wide tax to help fund ambulances services. Even if the measure gets on the November ballot and is approved, Supervisor Jacob Hackman noted that the County wouldn’t receive its first payment until October 2023.

It was decided that ambulance council member, Ionia Mayor Randy Taylor, and Supervisor Jason Byrne are to meet with current provider, Jeremy McGrath and Chickasaw Ambulance Services, about whether extending his contract beyond December 31st is an option; or if selling his ambulance equipment to the County is on the table if he ends service.

The Ambulance Council members will also go back to their city councils at their next meeting to discuss if they can afford the worst case financial scenario and what they would need to see to be interested in a joint public service.

Another joint meeting between the council and Board of Supervisors is tentatively scheduled for Tuesday, May 31st.