Meeting on Future of Ambulance Service in Chickasaw County Tonight

Discussion on the future of ambulance services in Chickasaw County continues tonight in New Hampton.

The Chickasaw County Ambulance Council will meet at 6 p.m. in the Community Services Building. At their last meeting in December, the council voted to form two committees on the options for ambulance services with the current agreement with Chickasaw Ambulance Service set to expire June 30th of this year.

Tonight’s agenda includes reports from both committees. One for a feasibility study on the county starting its own ambulance service. The other on renegotiation with the current provider. 

The Council is also slated for discussion on a bid from AMR Ambulance to provide service in Chickasaw County.

In exploring starting its own ambulance service, county officials have considered the use of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds. County Auditor Stephanie Mashek explained that ARPA funds could help pay for the startup costs including purchasing ambulances, but ARPA funds can not be used for staff salaries and benefits.