Indian Lake EMS now employs two fewer first responders following the layoff Friday of two full-time employees.
Assistant chief Adam Niederkohr and Shelby Clem each was relieved of duties, effective Friday.
Chief JoAnna Pittenger confirmed the layoffs, and cited a decrease in ambulance runs and call volume as reasons for the layoffs.
So far this year, Indian Lake EMS has responded to 106 fewer calls for service than at the same time as last year, Chief Pittenger said.
Mr. Niederkohr and Ms. Clem worked for Indian Lake EMS about four, and two years, respectively. Mr. Niederkohr had been assistant chief for about the last year.
The decrease in staff leaves Indian Lake EMS with one-full time crew during peak hours, instead of two. That reduced staffing schedule still leaves the EMS in line with the staffing schedules of other area EMS districts, including Macochee Joint Ambulance District, the chief said.
Chief Pittenger said the decision to reduce staff is no different than any other business reacting to its demand. The layoffs are strictly in response to a reduction in calls for service, and are not related to the unfinished Indian Lake EMS building across the street, she said.
She also dismissed the idea that Indian Lake EMS was in any financial trouble.
Read complete story in Saturday’s Examiner.
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