The Marion County Council meeting held on September 24, 2025, included a significant update regarding the county's Emergency Medical Services (EMS) ambulances. The council reported that two new gas-powered ambulances have recently arrived and are currently being equipped with necessary medical equipment, including strikers.
These new ambulances feature 14-foot bodies, an upgrade from the previous 12-foot models, and come with enhanced air conditioning systems that allow for more efficient operation on scene without needing to run the engine continuously. This improvement is expected to save fuel and reduce wear on the vehicles.
Additionally, the council noted that a diesel ambulance purchased six months prior will be stationed in Brisenau, while the two new ambulances will be deployed in Marion. The council plans to retire two older ambulances from service, although one of the older units will be retained as a spare, increasing the county's backup resources to two.
The council also mentioned that another ambulance has been ordered, which is expected to arrive in late November. Overall, these updates indicate a positive step forward in enhancing the county's EMS capabilities and ensuring better service for the community.