Red Deer City Council has directed Administration to continue delivering ambulance services through The City’s integrated Fire and EMS model, including the municipal tax funding support required to maintain the service.
Council’s decision means The City will pursue a renewed agreement with the Province to maintain integrated Fire and EMS service delivery in Red Deer under the Province’s new standardized EMS funding model.
The decision follows several weeks of analysis and discussion about the future of ambulance service delivery in Red Deer after the Province advised municipalities it would fund EMS services at a standardized rate.
The Province’s new funding model creates a multi-million-dollar funding gap to maintain Red Deer’s integrated Fire and EMS model. Based on current estimates, retaining the integrated service model could require an approximate municipal tax increase of 1.7 per cent, depending on the outcome of negotiations between The City and the Province of Alberta.
“I am hopeful that we will be able to work together with EMS/Fire staff to consider operational changes that will help minimize the cost differential between what EHS is prepared to fund and what the service will cost,” said Mayor Cindy Jefferies.
Under the direction approved by Council, Administration will renew the current EMS agreement and begin discussions with EHS Alberta regarding a longer-term agreement for EMS service delivery.
The City’s current integrated Fire and EMS model responds to more than 21,000 EMS calls annually. The model allows firefighter-paramedics to respond to medical emergencies from fire apparatus in addition to ambulance resources.
“Council’s direction recognizes the value residents place on the current level of service,” said City Manager Tara Lodewyk. “This decision will result in a tax increase for residents in 2027. This meets the Province’s deadlines for May 31, and there is still significant work ahead as Administration enters discussions with the Province of Alberta.”
Administration noted future discussions with the Province may include service delivery structure, operational efficiencies, and long-term financial sustainability considerations.
Residents can learn more about EMS service delivery on The City's website at www.reddeer.ca/emergencyservices