Tensions rise with Augusta city leaders over new emergency services

AUGUSTA, Ga. (WRDW/WAGT) – A heated dialogue with Augusta metropolis leaders round Richmond County’s new EMS supplier, Central EMS.

Commissioners are involved over the administrator authorizing an emergency buy for 911 software program.

“It was a protracted day as we speak,” mentioned Mayor Garnett Johnson.

Wednesday’s backwards and forwards with metropolis leaders centered round a virtually $130,000 emergency buy of dispatch software program. It’s an digital system for dispatchers to offer step-by-step assist for individuals on the opposite finish of a 911 name that additionally helps ambulances get dispatched quicker.

A system Gold Cross used to handle however is now on the shoulders of town with Central EMS stepping in. The backup to this program is a flipbook.

Johnson mentioned: “The one factor that involved among the commissioners was the method exterior of it not being run by the fee, by our physique.”

Interim Metropolis Administrator Takiyah Douse mentioned: “It is a positively risk to public well being, and the lives of our residents and guests of Richmond county is extraordinarily vital, not solely to me but in addition to this physique. Which is the explanation why I licensed the procurement of that software program.”

MORE AUGUSTA COVERAGE:

Central EMS President Gary Coker mentioned: “It’s like going to your notes in your pocket book now vs going to your laptop. That may save 60-90 seconds per name, and that’s time I feel typically makes the distinction in an emergency.”

Whereas commissioners say it will assist decrease the contract subsidy value, Central made it clear they may want one thing.

“We can have ambulances at zero subsidy. We’re not going to depart you with out, nevertheless, we want a subsidy in order that we will make the variety of ambulances in order that the response occasions are enough,” mentioned Coker.

Deal or no deal hammered out, Central says they’ll nonetheless be prepared for April 22.

Douse says she’ll be working by Masters with Central EMS to get a contract prepared for commissioners once they’re again in session. The digital system may take as much as three months to get put in.

Copyright 2023 WRDW/WAGT. All rights reserved.