The newly formed Hennessey 522 Ambulance District Board held its first organizational meeting Wednesday, July 22, taking the first steps toward establishing the district that will oversee long-term ambulance service for the Hennessey area.
The meeting served primarily as an orientation, with Kingfisher County Emergency Manager and former Kingfisher 522 Ambulance District board member Randy Poindexter, along with other county officials, explaining the legal requirements, budgeting process and responsibilities of operating an ambulance district.
Poindexter said the board’s immediate priorities include obtaining required bonds, securing legal counsel, establishing financial procedures, preparing its first budget and developing bid specifications for ambulance providers.
Board members discussed preparing a detailed request for proposals that will define service expectations, including advanced life support, staffing levels, backup ambulance availability, response times and equipment standards. Hennessey Fire Chief Brandon Scott said several ambulance providers have already expressed interest in bidding on the contract.
Much of the meeting focused on finances.
John Storm of Storm & Hauser explained that the district is expected to receive about $200,000 annually from the newly approved three-mill property tax, but those funds will not begin arriving until early next year. Combined with the Town of Hennessey’s existing ambulance sales tax, approximately $400,000 could be available each year for EMS operations. However, Storm cautioned that ambulance contracts, administrative costs, required audits and other expenses could quickly reduce those funds.
Board members also discussed whether the district should contract directly with an ambulance provider or reimburse the Town of Hennessey while allowing the town to maintain the contract. Storm said direct contracting could expose the board to greater financial liability if costs exceed revenues, while others noted it would also provide greater control over ambulance operations. No decision was made, and members agreed additional legal guidance is needed.
Kingfisher County Assessor Carrie Turner explained how the new three-mill property tax will appear on tax statements and reminded residents that the tax funds the availability of ambulance service, not the cost of an ambulance ride. Patients will still be billed by the ambulance provider for transport.
The board also reviewed Hennessey’s ambulance resources. The town owns an ambulance and the building where it is housed, both of which could help reduce costs for a future provider. A second town-owned ambulance, however, is more than 20 years old and will likely require significant upgrades or replacement. Members also reviewed how neighboring ambulance services currently provide mutual aid when Hennessey’s ambulance is already on another call.
Before adjourning, members drew lots to establish staggered terms and elected officers. Ray Shimanek was elected chairman with a five-year term, Pearla Blanco vice chairman with a two-year term, Dr. David Matousek treasurer with a one-year term, Levi Copeland secretary with a four-year term, and Shelley Muzny board member with a three-year term.
The board will meet again Wednesday, July 29, at 6 p.m. at the Hennessey Fire Station to continue organizing the district and begin preparing bid documents for permanent ambulance service.
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