Spirit EMS contract extended for three additional years

HOUSTON, Ohio – Residents of the Houston Joint Ambulance District will continue receiving dependable emergency medical services after the district board voted unanimously to extend its partnership with Spirit EMS for another three years. The renewed agreement reinforces what local leaders describe as a strong, reliable, and community-centered collaboration that has served the district well for the past five years.

Spirit EMS has provided 911 coverage to the district since Houston Rescue concluded operations at the end of 2020, partnering closely with the Houston, Lockington, and Russia fire departments, as well as Shelby County deputies, to ensure timely emergency response and high-quality patient care. Company officials noted that the district now benefits from a dedicated, experienced team of EMS professionals who know the area well, understand residents’ needs, and have built strong, positive working relationships with first responders and area hospitals.

Spirit EMS President/CEO Brian K. Hathaway expressed gratitude for the continued confidence shown by district leaders. Before the extension could take effect, the governing bodies represented on the ambulance district board—Loramie Township, Washington Township, and the Village of Lockington—unanimously approved the three-year contract.

“We are forever grateful to the elected officials for their support, but most importantly to the residents of the ambulance district for their continued trust,” Hathaway said. “This is a community our organization has come to love, and we are grateful to be there in their everyday time of need. Our crews take great pride in serving this district, and this renewed agreement is a reflection of their dedication, compassion, and the genuine relationships they’ve built with the people who call this place home.”

Recent performance metrics presented to the board demonstrated consistent readiness and reliability. Spirit EMS responded to 25 calls in September, 30 in October, 24 in November, and 20 calls through the last week of December. Average dispatch-to-enroute times remained around two minutes, and crews typically arrived on scene within 10 to 12 minutes. Throughout the year, Spirit EMS has responded to all 251 emergency calls in the district without needing to call upon mutual aid from agencies outside of its jurisdiction. In 2025, five calls occurred while another unit was already committed to a call in the district—a reflection of solid staffing and strong coverage. Overall call volume in 2025 is about 5% higher than in the same period last year.

Spirit EMS has also continued to strengthen its operational capabilities through investments in communication technology. Enhancements include improved statewide interoperability, expanded radio functionality on the MARCS and Shelby County 700 MHz systems, and additional system upgrades to streamline emergency response coordination.

Beyond daily operations, Spirit EMS remains committed to ongoing workforce development, training, and the adoption of national EMS best practices. The organization recently earned national recognition when two Spirit EMS leaders were honored as American Ambulance Association Stars of Life in Washington, D.C., celebrating exceptional service and leadership.

The Spirit EMS leadership expressed appreciation to the district board and community members for their continued trust and partnership. They emphasized their commitment to delivering reliable service, compassionate care, and strong community collaboration in the years ahead.

Spirit EMS contract extended for three additional years

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