Glen Ellyn approves new paramedic provider

The Village of Glen Ellyn approved a new paramedic provider in the second step of a process to increase ambulance services in town.

The village bought two ambulances in February. Deputy Village Manager Curt Barrett said Monday the demand for service has increased in town, necessitating a move from one-and-a-half ambulances to two.

The increase also means the village's fire department can honor mutual aid obligations. It also means decreased response times for 911 calls.

Although the board approved a five-year contract for paramedic services with Public Safety Services Inc. of Rosemont, Trustees Peter Ladesic and Timothy Armstrong voted against the proposal.

Both have been vocal opponents of Glen Ellyn owning and operating its own ambulances because of increased liability.

"There's a lot of uncertainties, I think, in this new relationship," Ladesic said.

He also said the right of first refusal should have gone to Metro, the former provider of paramedic services in town.

However, Village President Vicky Hase said the PSSI price was more competitive.

The company will provide services the first year for $834,600. Barrett said the contract also includes provisions for retaining several paramedics who have experience in Glen Ellyn.

"We'll be doing this with new, state-of-the-art ambulances," Barrett said, adding services will cost less than the village currently is spending.

The cost of the paramedic services will be added to the cost of the ambulances, which were purchased for $231,488. The village also bought cots to upgrade the vehicles for $21,660 and two defibrillators for $51,175.

"We are looking forward to improved EMS coverage in the village," said Fire Chief Scott Raffensparger.