In a recent White County Commission meeting held on April 2, 2025, discussions centered around the pressing needs of the county's Emergency Medical Services (EMS) and the challenges faced by the department due to rising call volumes and staffing shortages. EMS Director Mike Kerr presented a compelling case for additional resources, emphasizing the critical nature of their operations and the impact on community health and safety.

Kerr highlighted that the EMS has seen a significant increase in call volume, with projections indicating they may exceed 7,000 calls this year. This surge has strained existing resources, leading to increased overtime for staff and a reliance on calling in personnel from other shifts. Kerr requested the addition of one truck per shift, which would help alleviate the pressure on current crews and improve response times, particularly during peak hours identified from their data analysis.

The discussion also touched on the aging fleet of EMS vehicles, with several trucks nearing or exceeding 300,000 miles. Kerr noted that maintaining these vehicles incurs additional costs and operational challenges, as trucks require more frequent inspections once they surpass this mileage threshold. The need for new vehicles was underscored, with Kerr mentioning that two new trucks have been ordered but are expected to take up to 18 months for delivery.

Another significant point raised was the staffing situation within the EMS. Kerr pointed out the difficulty in recruiting and retaining qualified paramedics, exacerbated by the limited local training opportunities. He mentioned that while some employees are being trained through local programs, many are drawn to other counties with more robust training and employment incentives. This has led to a reliance on overtime and temporary staffing solutions, which are not sustainable in the long term.

The meeting also addressed the administrative challenges faced by the EMS, with Kerr performing multiple roles due to a lack of clerical support. He proposed hiring a secretary who could also be trained as an EMT, allowing for greater operational flexibility and efficiency. This dual role would not only assist with administrative tasks but also provide additional support during emergencies.

In conclusion, the White County Commission's discussions highlighted the urgent need for enhanced EMS resources, including additional staffing and updated vehicles, to meet the growing demands of the community. As the county navigates these challenges, the decisions made in the coming months will be crucial in ensuring that EMS can continue to provide timely and effective care to residents. The commission is expected to further evaluate these requests and their associated costs in future meetings.