Tri-County EMS is reportedly facing financial crisis

Port Washington Council member Nate Penrod told village council at its Sept. 19 meeting that he recently attended a meeting of the Tri-County Joint Ambulance District, formerly Tri-County EMS, where it was announced the organization is facing financial difficulty.

The problem reportedly stems, at least in part, from Tri-County JAD losing revenue from transfer calls, which are patient transports from one hospital to another. According to Alvin Moore, chief at Tri-County JAD, a contract the organization had with one of the hospitals in Coshocton was not renewed.

At the same time, Tri-County JAD is getting more 911 calls now, which are not as profitable. Tri-County is currently the only ambulance service in Newcomerstown.

“We can handle the 911 calls,” Moore said. “But then we don’t have the squads to handle the transports.”

Penrod said Tri-County JAD discussed scheduling a meeting to consider options for increasing revenue, but a date has not been set.

2024 budget approved

Fiscal officer Darissa Lute reviewed a proposed budget for 2024 that included $313,296 for the general fund, $41,200 for streets, $3,400 for the state highway fund and $5,000 for the cemetery. Council approved the budget figures and approved submitting it to the county auditor.

Reports to council

Mayor Gardner reported a grant sought for the street light project was denied, prompting Penrod to ask if the street light project could be added to the proposed sidewalk project. Gardner said he would check with DJ Meek about the matter.

Penrod also asked if elevations would be changed when the sidewalk project is completed. Gardner said ODOT personnel would have handled any elevation changes that would be needed for the project.

Penrod said the gates at the Arch Street ball field are falling off and also indicated the need for sweeping loose gravel along some streets. Rick Swiger, street supervisor, agreed to handle both matters.

Swiger said repairs to the Bobcat were performed by the dealership, which included installing a new hydraulic pump and filter.

In his president’s report, Joe Bourne said new paint lines for parking are needed in front of the post office, which Swiger said he would address. Bourne thanked Ed Steffek for the design. Steffek expressed gratitude to Salem Township trustees John Bourne and DJ Meek for their help installing the sculpture.

Penrod asked if additional names could be painted on the sculpture. Steffek said it may be possible, but he would need to review the names before committing to any additions.

Brandie Bourne announced the monthly fire department breakfast is tentatively scheduled for Oct. 14 from 8-11 a.m. and trick or treat will be Tuesday, Oct. 31 from 5:30-7 p.m.

Port Washington Council meets the first and third Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. in Village Hall. All meetings are open to the public.