Council hears request for six paramedics to staff fourth ambulance as call volumes climb

Emergency services staff told council they want to add six paramedics to staff an additional ambulance to improve coverage and reduce mutual-aid dependency.

"Currently, we run 3 ambulances 24/7. We'd like to kick that up to 4," the EMS presenter said, adding the department ran about 3,875 calls in 2013 and is now "over 5,000 calls" annually. The presenter said the agency's average response time is "6 minutes 17 seconds," faster than the national average, but said additional local units would reduce times when mutual aid is needed.

Why it matters: Staff said the new staffing would improve coverage during peak periods, reduce reliance on mutual aid and help avoid extended unit outages at hospitals that can tie up crews. The earliest anticipated hire date shown to the council was April 2027 and would be contingent on available space after City Hall work is completed.

Council members asked about turnover and retention; staff said recent pay adjustments have reduced departures and that the department currently has one paramedic vacancy but an improving retention picture.