Commissioners approve small EMS transfer; staff raise recurring engine warranty concerns for newer ambulances

Williams County commissioners reviewed a transfer resolution that included a small EMS purchase and heard staff describe recurring problems with several newer ambulances' 7.3-liter gas engines.
Why it matters: The immediate transfer — described in the meeting as about $2,800 to buy stair chairs for EMS — addressed an operational gap when a new ambulance arrived without the device. Staff said they purchased two stair chairs to equip the new unit and to have a backup on hand.
During discussion a county official explained authority and purchasing: he said Kyle (an EMS supervisor) "has spending up to a dollar amount," and that this purchase was small enough that staff felt comfortable approving it under the transfer. The transfer appeared on the agenda as part of Resolution 3 90 (a transfer resolution for several departments).
Staff also reported mechanical issues affecting some county ambulances. "Ford Motor Company has a major problem with these 7 3 gas motors," one staff member said, describing a lifter-valve problem that requires substantial repair. The speaker said one vehicle out of warranty was sent to a dealer in Hillsdale, Michigan, for warranty work and that other similar units remain under warranty. Staff said they are communicating with Ford's complaint department and indicated the county may need to escalate complaints to secure manufacturer action for repeated failures.
Operational context: Staff described that many ambulance engines accrue high idle hours while crews are on standby, and that idling can accelerate wear. They also said a recently purchased squad returned from out-of-county pickup and is now being equipped for service.
Next steps: The county will continue warranty repairs through dealers and pursue escalation with Ford if necessary. The transfer for stair chairs and the related budget adjustments were discussed and processed during the meeting; staff said they would finalize equipment placement for the new ambulance once outfitting is complete.