BROWNSTOWN — Jackson County Council convened Wednesday morning at the courthouse for a regularly scheduled meeting.
Nate Bryant, executive director of Jackson County EMS, made the council aware of budget concerns with vehicle repairs.
“It’s likely that at the next meeting, I’ll be here for an additional appropriation,” Bryant said. “It’s something that’s outside of our control, but if we don’t have ambulances, it’s hard to operate.”
Councilman Brian Thompson asked Bryant if vehicle repair costs will continue to increase in the future and Bryant said they would because of the wear and tear that comes with gasoline.
“Years ago — six-plus years ago — we were diesel, but the problem is you pay so much for maintenance,” Bryant said. “It lasts longer, but the upfront cost and the availability of anybody that’s able to work on on them is extremely difficult.”
Bryant also told council members Goecker Construction is on track for a tentative December 18 end date for the station remodel in Brownstown. He said he reached out to Goecker and asked if he could stop by the site once a week to document progress, which Goecker agreed to.
“This is something that the staff is super excited about, so I wanted to make sure it was okay with [Goecker] that I stop by and take pictures so that I could send them out to the team and keep them updated,” Bryant said. “If anybody wants to join, you’re more than welcome to.”
Bryant also spoke to the council about EMS computers. He said he has reached out to a group to explore an option of a possible donation, as 4 computers staff use to do patient error reports have reached the end of their life.
He also laid out a plan for how to utililize excess funds he “anticipates” EMS will have from the Brownstown station renovation.
“I would ask your permission to use those funds to replace mattresses and some of the furniture at the other stations as well,” Bryant said. “The beds that they currently have, some are ten-plus years old.”
Councilman Thompson asked County Attorney Susan Bevers if the council would be able to act upon Bryant’s request to replace mattresses and furniture before construction on the Brownstown station is over. Bevers said the council would not have to wait to make a motion until then; however, Bryant should monitor the cost of construction of the Brownstown station to ensure there is enough excess money left in the bond.
Thompson then asked Bryant if there would be enough excess funds to purchase new computers as well. Bryant said that option would “make the most sense” if the donation route does not lead anywhere.
Council members elected to not make motions on Bryant’s inquiries until construction on the Brownstown station is complete and the amount of excess funds is definite.
The county council meets every third Wednesday of the month at the Jackson County Courthouse, 111 S. Main St. Meetings are open to the public and the press.