The Sawyer County government meeting held on June 8, 2025, focused on several key updates regarding public safety and community services. Among the highlights was a report on the local ambulance service, which has seen a significant increase in call volume, rising to 886 calls this year compared to 772 last year, marking a 14.8% increase. This uptick is attributed to the implementation of a second crew based in Hayward, which has improved response times and allowed for more efficient handling of calls within the city.
Emergency Services Administrator Mr. Premo discussed ongoing efforts to establish mutual aid agreements with neighboring ambulance services, including those in Barnes and Park Falls. These agreements aim to enhance collaboration and support during emergencies, particularly as the population ages and the number of fall-related incidents is expected to rise.
In addition to the ambulance report, the meeting addressed staffing changes within the county's legal department. A new receptionist, Amy Benson, has joined the team following the retirement of the previous receptionist. Benson brings valuable legal experience from her previous role at a law firm in Eau Claire, which is expected to benefit the department's operations.
The meeting concluded with a discussion on the importance of tracking response times and call types, with a focus on improving service delivery in the future. Overall, the meeting underscored the county's commitment to enhancing public safety and community support through improved services and collaboration.