In a recent Waverly City Council meeting held on January 25, 2025, discussions centered around initiatives aimed at enhancing community safety and emergency services, particularly through the recruitment of younger volunteers for the fire department and updates on the ambulance service.

One of the key highlights was the introduction of a new firefighter program targeting high school students aged 16 to 18. The initiative aims to recruit a maximum of four participants who will receive hands-on training to gauge their interest in pursuing a career in firefighting. This program is designed to address the challenges faced by the fire department in retaining volunteers, as many candidates drop out after the initial six months of training. By engaging younger individuals early, the council hopes to cultivate a new generation of firefighters, even if they eventually choose to serve in other communities.

Additionally, the council discussed a scholarship program initiated by a local high school to support students entering the fire service or related fields such as law enforcement and forestry. This effort reflects a broader trend of declining interest in emergency services among youth, prompting the council to explore various avenues to attract new recruits.

The meeting also featured updates from the ambulance department, where manager Nick Nedza reported on the status of their fleet. The department has ordered a new ambulance, expected to arrive by May 2026, to replace an aging vehicle with over 291,000 miles. Nedza highlighted the importance of maintaining a fourth ambulance as a backup during lengthy remounting processes, which can take up to two years. The department currently operates with three ambulances, responding to an average of nearly six calls per day, with a significant portion of those calls originating from Waverly.

Nedza noted the ongoing challenges of volunteerism in emergency services, emphasizing that while the department is fully staffed, the overall trend shows an aging workforce. He expressed optimism about the future, citing the department's recognition as the Iowa EMS Association's Career Service of the Year in 2024, attributed to their educational outreach and successful staffing efforts.

In conclusion, the Waverly City Council's discussions reflect a proactive approach to addressing the community's emergency service needs. By fostering youth engagement in firefighting and ensuring the ambulance service remains well-equipped and staffed, the council aims to enhance public safety and responsiveness in the face of evolving challenges. The next steps will involve implementing the firefighter program and monitoring the progress of the ambulance service upgrades, as the council continues to prioritize community health and safety.