EMS Service Update – South County Ambulance

The Board received an update on the new ambulance service established December 1, 2025, at Boonsboro Fire Station #8, highlighting its positive impact on emergency response in South County. In its first month and a half of operation, the ambulance responded to nearly 70 calls, including 50 calls in December, with 38 resulting in patient transports. The new unit has helped relieve demand on other county ambulances and improve overall coverage.

Officials noted significant reductions in response times, saving an estimated 10–14 minutes per call in some cases compared to previous responses from farther distances, with early high-priority calls reaching patients in as little as six minutes. Community feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, with local leaders and residents expressing strong appreciation for the improved service. The update emphasized that the added ambulance has strengthened emergency medical coverage, enhanced patient outcomes, and addressed a long-standing need in South County.

Board of County Commissioners Approves Additional Firefighter (FAO) Positions for the Division of Emergency Services

The Board of County Commissioners approved the addition of nine (9) full-time firefighter (FAO) positions in Fiscal Year 2026 (FY26), bringing the total number of new firefighters this fiscal year to eighteen (18). The approval also includes authorization to hire a second shift supervisor as one (1) of the nine (9) new positions.

This action will allow the Division of Emergency Services to strategically place firefighters across multiple stations, improving daily coverage and response reliability throughout Washington County.

• The Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) approved submitting a $700,000 Fiscal Year 2027 (FY27) Greenspace Equity Grant application to the Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) to fund the Marty Snook Park, Multiuse Trail and Parking Project. This project will expand the park’s trail network, improve safety and accessibility, address parking and pedestrian concerns; and, the grant, if awarded, requires no local match.
• The Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) provided consensus to support two (2) potential legislative items related to County procurement.
• The Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) authorized a modification to the Paramedic Program Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Hagerstown Community College, to better reflect the current student enrollment balance between DES-sponsored students and outside students, ensuring equitable revenue distribution.
• The Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) approved multiple purchase awards and contract renewals across various County departments.
• Additional action items were addressed during the meeting and can be viewed by watching the full meeting on YouTube.

• February 3, 2026 I Regular Meeting & Evening Meeting with Maugansville
• February 10, 2026 I Regular Meeting
• February 24, 2026 I Regular Meeting
• March 3, 2026 I Regular Meeting