In a recent government meeting, officials addressed ongoing issues with the ambulance fleet, highlighting significant operational challenges faced by the fire department. Concerns were raised regarding the insufficient number of ambulances available for service, with only seven operational units expected by the end of the month, falling short of the minimum standard of eight.

The discussions revealed that the fire department has been grappling with procurement delays, which have hindered the repair and maintenance of ambulances. Officials pointed out that while requisitions for repairs have been submitted, the process has been slow, leading to a backlog in getting ambulances back on the road. The chief acknowledged that the current operational fleet has been affected by these delays, with some vehicles down for repairs since the beginning of the fiscal year.

The meeting also touched on the potential impact of a new bill aimed at streamlining procurement processes. While officials expressed hope that the bill could expedite future repairs, they conceded that it would not resolve the immediate shortage of ambulances. The chief confirmed that the fire department has activated agreements with federal partners for additional support, but availability remains inconsistent, further complicating the situation.

As a result, residents may experience longer wait times for ambulance services, with some reports indicating delays of up to two hours. The urgency of addressing these procurement issues was underscored, as officials acknowledged the critical need for a reliable ambulance service to ensure public safety.