White County officials are grappling with critical budgetary decisions that could significantly impact local emergency services and employee compensation. During a recent County Commission meeting held on May 20, 2025, discussions centered on the allocation of funds for the Emergency Medical Services (EMS) and the pressing need for additional staffing and resources.

A key point of contention arose regarding the budget for the EMS director's salary, with commissioners questioning discrepancies in proposed amounts. The conversation highlighted the urgent need for transparency in how funds are allocated, particularly emphasizing that any surplus should directly benefit county employees who are essential to public safety.

Mike Kerr, the EMS director, provided insight into the operational challenges faced by the department. He noted that White County's EMS is the busiest in the region, handling approximately 7,000 calls annually with only three ambulances. This limited capacity raises concerns about response times, especially during peak demand when ambulances may be unavailable for critical emergencies.

Commissioners expressed a strong desire to ensure that employee compensation reflects the demanding nature of their work. However, they also acknowledged the necessity of maintaining a balance between increasing pay and hiring additional staff to prevent burnout among current employees. The discussion underscored the importance of retaining skilled personnel, as Kerr reported losing three employees to neighboring counties due to better pay opportunities.

The meeting also touched on the long wait times for new emergency vehicles, with some orders taking up to three years to fulfill. This delay poses a significant risk to the county's ability to provide adequate emergency services in the future. Commissioners emphasized the need for a consistent vehicle replacement strategy to avoid a crisis in service availability.

As the budget discussions continue, officials are faced with the challenge of addressing immediate staffing and resource needs while ensuring fiscal responsibility. The outcome of these deliberations will have lasting implications for the county's emergency services and the well-being of its employees. Moving forward, the commission aims to find a solution that balances employee compensation with the essential services required by the community.