The Village of Kewaskum Board and City of West Bend Common Council approved a Memorandum of Understanding to pursue the consolidation of Emergency Medical Services between the Kewaskum Fire Department and West Bend Fire Department, with a target date for implementation of January 1, 2025.
Throughout Wisconsin, EMS providers are facing a crisis due to a shortage of volunteer and paid personnel, insufficient financial resources, and increasing demands for services. This crisis is resulting in critical stress on local EMS providers. Recognizing the importance of efficient, timely, and high-quality emergency medical care, the Village of Kewaskum and City of West Bend agree that the consolidation presents a strategic opportunity to enhance the effectiveness and sustainability of EMS in our jurisdictions.
“We are confident that we can create a more robust, integrated, and responsive emergency medical system that prioritizes the well-being and safety of all community members,” said West Bend Mayor Joel Ongert. “We are committed to engaging in collaborative discussions, consulting with stakeholders, and working closely with relevant authorities to develop and implement a comprehensive plan for the consolidation of EMS.”…