Supervisors declare EMS an essential county service and set up advisory council process

On May 18 the Muscatine County Board of Supervisors approved a resolution on the second reading to declare Emergency Medical Services (EMS) an essential county service and directed the establishment of a county EMS System Advisory Council.

County staff explained the resolution implements Iowa Code provisions requiring counties that declare EMS essential to coordinate with local EMS agencies and to form an advisory council to research service needs and guide implementation. Staff presented a recommended membership list that would include representatives from the county’s transport agencies, first‑responder districts and a nonvoting staff chair to run meetings and publish minutes. The advisory council will be required to produce an annual report describing how funds were spent and service outcomes.

The board voted in favor on the second reading by roll call. Staff said, if the resolution is adopted on the third reading, the board will formally appoint the advisory council and return to the board with bylaws and appointment confirmations. The county indicated it could use EMS levy funds to support medical director arrangements and advisory council work if needed.