Questions about the future of ambulance service in rural Pennington County are drawing attention from local officials.
According to Pennington County Commissioner Jerry Derr, the Rapid City Fire Department has informed the county that it can no longer absorb the financial burden of providing ambulance service outside Rapid City without a long-term funding agreement.
In a recent social media post, Derr said the issue raises concerns about the reliability of emergency medical response in rural areas.
Derr emphasized that no resident should have to wonder whether an ambulance will arrive after calling 9-1-1. He also said Rapid City taxpayers should not be expected to subsidize ambulance services for communities outside city limits without financial participation from the areas receiving that coverage.
The commissioner is now seeking public input on the issue and encouraging residents to share their concerns and ideas.
Those interested in weighing in are invited to attend the next Pennington County Commission meeting, scheduled for July 7th at 9 a.m.
County leaders say discussions about a sustainable funding solution for rural ambulance service are expected to continue.
