In a recent government meeting, officials discussed critical staffing challenges and budgetary needs within Amelia County, particularly focusing on the Emergency Medical Services (EMS) and finance departments. The meeting highlighted the urgent requirement for additional personnel to address increasing demands on county services.

Cameron, a representative from the EMS department, emphasized the necessity of hiring two full-time employees and several part-time staff to manage the growing workload. The department has faced significant challenges, particularly during daytime hours when volunteer availability is limited. The county has recently taken on additional responsibilities, including fuel and maintenance for ambulances, further straining its two-person team. Cameron noted that without these new hires, the department's ability to respond effectively to emergencies would be compromised.

The discussion also touched on budget constraints, with officials acknowledging that the current budget could not absorb the costs associated with these new hires. However, a motion was made and approved to allocate $130,000 for EMS staffing, reflecting a consensus on the importance of enhancing public safety services.

Additionally, the meeting addressed staffing vacancies in the county's finance department. With two key positions—Community Development Director and Finance Director—currently unfilled, officials reported ongoing recruitment efforts, including participation in job fairs and advertising on various platforms. The finance department has been operating with minimal staff, relying on a remote consultant to manage high-level duties, which has resulted in significant expenses. The need for a more robust finance team was underscored, with recommendations for additional staffing to ensure compliance with financial regulations and to support the county's growth.

Overall, the meeting underscored the pressing need for strategic hiring and budget adjustments to meet the demands of a growing community and to maintain essential services.