Staff writer
Marion city council restructured itself at Monday’s meeting.
John Wheeler was sworn in as a new council member, replacing Chad Adkins, who resigned at the May 9 meeting.
Melissa Mermis was elected vice mayor to fill the vacancy left by Adkins’ departure.
Other matters handled by the council were routine.
The city of Marion was handed an $11,232 check by its insurance company at Monday’s city council meeting.
Alex Case, Case and Son Insurance, gave the check to the council as a dividend on its EMC policy.
Ed Debesis, director of Emergency Medical Services, introduced himself to the council and gave them an update on the department. Staffing is an issue at the moment, Debesis said.
“Right now Marion and Hillsboro are hurting for people,” Debesis said.
Sometimes personnel from the two towns must meet together to go on runs. At other times, an ambulance may have to come from Peabody or Florence to cover needed services, Debesis said.
“I’ve talked to county commission about hiring someone, but there’s no money for that,” Debesis said.
Employees are paid $2 per hour while on call and $25 per ambulance run.
“That’s not too attractive,” Debesis said. “I’m looking to put in the budget for six more people — three EMTs and three paramedics.”
In other matters, council members:
- heard from Mark Chesney with the Kansas Power Pool, who gave a regular update on the power pool operation;
- voted to move forward work on Main Street curb and guttering so the work would not postpone a streetscape project;
- viewed the city’s new drug dog vehicle; and
- heard routine staff reports.