Two weeks ago, DeWitt County residents voted to have ambulance service within the county.

Dr. John Warner Hospital officials felt the referendum to levy a tax for the service would pass, however, they did not think it would pass to the over 70/30 vote it did. CEO of the Dr. John Warner Hospital, Earl Sheehy explains, the hospital maintains their position to step away  from the ambulance service, however, they are more than willing to aid whoever comes in to take over, to sell vehicles and temporarily use their garage space.

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The DJWH legally has to get fair value for their equipment. Sheehy explains they also have equipment they have received that was obtained through grants that must get a green light from the grant distributor and find out if the equipment can be passed along.

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One concern on the mind of Sheehy is personnel. He says current employees are relieved the tax passed, however, he is concerned with their future if an outside source comes in to the  County. Sheehy says they also may run into overlap gaps in coverage, which will have to be addressed.

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The DeWitt County Board will have a work session Thursday, April 12 to discuss what the community would like to see happen in relation to the ambulance service. The meeting is at 6 pm at the DeWitt County Building in Courtroom A. Both written and verbal comments will be accepted at that time.