Committee recommends exceeding levy limit to fund countywide EMS services; bids range widely

Richland County committee members reviewed multiple bids and internal estimates for third‑party ambulance service and voted to recommend that the full county board exceed the levy limit to fund countywide EMS services, with levy proceeds allocated on equalized value and distributed equitably across the county.

Staff presented three third‑party bids for comparison: Gunderson (approximately $212,000 per year for a five‑year contract), Lifestars (approximately $404,000 per year, with a listed cost‑of‑living increase), and Ryan Brothers (quoted $97,715 per year plus a one‑time $45,000 payment). Committee members noted the county’s incumbent EMS provider also submitted internal cost estimates, which staff included as an additional comparison.

Committee discussion focused on timing, fiscal impact and distribution mechanics. Several supervisors emphasized municipalities and the county need clarity about when a new funding approach would apply because most current municipal contracts or arrangements extend through 2026. Staff and members indicated a plan or funding decision will be needed for 2027 if the county intends to underwrite countywide EMS service funding.

A motion passed to recommend to the full county board that the county exceed the tax‑levy limit to fund EMS services, with funds based on equalized value and distributed equitably across the county. The committee amended the motion on the floor to specify the levy would begin in 2027. Committee members tasked staff to work with state and local professionals to propose formulas and options for distributing funds (for example, direct payments to services vs. pass‑through to municipalities) and to return recommendations for board consideration.

Representative detail: “Gunderson's bid for a five‑year contract was 212,000 per year. Lifestars was 404,000 per year… Ryan Brothers was $97,715 and a one‑time payment of $45,000,” a staff presenter told the committee.