The mayor of Evansville says the plan to move ambulance service to the city’s fire department makes financial and public safety sense. WNIN’s John Gibson has more:
Stephanie Terry says a thorough evaluation was conducted before the decision was made:
"This is part of, I think, a broader effort for us to modernize city services. It also ensures that public safety really is better integrated and adaptable."
Terry also says the move is being made with an eye on state funding:
"Changes from the state in funding, looking at property tax revenue and potential reductions. We're looking at everything. And this is one way for us to fill the gap."
Terry says the Evansville Fire Department will start providing the service in July 2026, ending a long contract with AMR.
Officials say the transition will cost about seven-million dollars and will be covered by casino funds.
The revenue from ambulance fees is projected to create an annual surplus of three-and-a-half million by 2028.
Fire Chief Tony Knight says on average, residents should see quicker response times and a 25-percent drop in the cost of using an ambulance.
The city plans to closely work with AMR during the transition and hire paramedics and other personnel currently working for the ambulance company.
The plan does not affect AMR’s contract with Vanderburgh County.
The new ambulances and staff would be stationed at Evansville’s 14 firehouses.
More: The city is expected to announce plans for a 15th fire station soon.