Lease for EMS Facility Discussed by County Board; Altamont Ambulance Okayed as Mutual Aid Provider

Effingham County Board members Monday briefly discussed whether to build an EMS building and lease the structure to the County's EMS provider.

The current provider, Abbott Ambulance, is still finalizing its local operation. The firm is now utilizing space at the Effingham County U of I Extension Center on Wenthe Drive.

Board Chairman Jim Niemann said he is not sure of the legalities of such a project and plans to research the matter. Other board members said they've been contacted by those who know of existing facilities they say could be utilized.

The item was on the agenda for discussion, not for a vote.

Meanwhile, the Board voted to authorize Abbott Ambulance to use Altamont Ambulance as a mutual aid provider. Board member John Perry voted No and contended that the agreement for ambulance service with Abbott Ambulance was supposed to be because of problems with Altamont Ambulance. Perry wondered why it was alright to utilize Altamont Ambulance?

Board member Rob Arnold said to not provide mutual aid for the western part of the county was something he opposed, even though he admitted he had concerns about Altamont Ambulance. Perry said if Abbott can't provide adequate service, the ambulance agreement should be revisited and another vendor sought.

Niemann said Abbott is working toward having their Effingham County operation finalized by September 1.