POLITICS

Columbia County renews contract with Gold Cross EMS. Here's what has changed

Miguel Legoas
Augusta Chronicle

The Augusta area saw another EMS contract negotiation kick off this week, but it was resolved with very little time and stress.

Columbia County commissioners on Tuesday unanimously approved a renewed contract with Gold Cross EMS.

Two of the biggest changes to come include Columbia County taking over EMS dispatch, which will save Gold Cross money, and the the subsidy dropping from $850,000 to $750,000, saving the county money.

The agreement also removes the requirement of quick response vehicles. Monday-Friday. Regarding penalties, commissioners agreed that a $1,500 performance adjustment be assessed every time an ambulance unit is without a paramedic for any length of time.

The discussion lasted about three minutes with no opposition; a much less complicated proceeding than this year's months-long back-and-forth in Augusta which led to the city parting ways with Gold Cross and partnering with Central EMS.

Columbia County's new contract goes into effect on Jan 1. It's a five-year contract in its second year.

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