Otsego County’s Budget & Finance Committee discussed a 2028 EMS millage proposal that was tabled by the Board of Commissioners pending additional financial information. EMS leadership outlined major upcoming capital needs, including replacing a rescue truck, purchasing a new ambulance, potentially building a new station on the west side of town, and replacing vehicles from 2008 and older, along with upgraded medical equipment like IV pumps and possible blood transfusion equipment. The discussion also highlighted the need for an 8‑week wage reserve to remain competitive in staffing and the shortfalls in Medicare/Medicaid reimbursements relative to service costs.78 mills to take effect in 2028 was noted. This signals multi-year planning for EMS fleet, facilities, and medical technology purchases that will depend on millage funding and supporting financial analysis. Vendors in EMS vehicles, station design/construction, and clinical equipment can position themselves now by helping the county refine cost estimates, lifecycle plans, and funding scenarios ahead of the final millage decision.

Key needs include a rescue truck replacement, a new ambulance, potential west-side EMS station, replacement of 2008-and-older vehicles, upgraded IV pumps and possible blood transfusion equipment, and wage reserve funding.