Although we are disappointed in the outcome the Emergency Medical System district vote, we would like to take a moment to thank each of you for your assistance in this effort, and for the tremendous display of our local democratic process in action.

We have received a great deal of positive and negative feedback since announcing the plans for the Southeast Shelby Rescue District and we value the input of all of those in the community.  It is apparent that a large number of you want to support Southeast Shelby Rescue in our continuing efforts to provide our citizens Emergency Medical Services as well as Emergency Transport.  Even more so, we are humbled and excited to see the support that so many have pledged they are willing to provide as we remain steadfast in our unwavering commitment to provide the best possible Emergency Medical and Transport services to our citizens.

Many have voiced their concern that they were unaware of the need of funding.  As so many are aware, medical costs have continued to grow exponentially over the last decade, with little end in sight.  Community support is key to providing the lifesaving services provided by Southeast Shelby Emergency Rescue.  We recognize that community engagement must become a priority moving forward.  Most of us never have to think about the cost of emergency medical services or transport to the hospital etc. Southeast Shelby Rescue will take responsibility for this issue and attempt to inform and educate each of you as to the state of the finances and need within the community.  Many have requested the ability to donate in different more modern ways.  Southeast Shelby will be exploring what options are available to make it as easy as possible for the community to show their support financially -and in turn allow us to support members of the community in their most dire times.

For some, the financial condition and management of the company has become a key talking point.  We will continue, as we have been already, to be transparent to our community and the general public at large.  In many cases, those who have had questions have come to us directly, and we have been able to alleviate any concerns they had.  We stand in complete encouragement of the community to hold all organizations and elected officials accountable to their constituents.

Changes in the Economy, Healthcare Marketplace restrictions, Opioid Crisis, Pandemic and many challenges beyond our control have taken a toll and continue to put a significant strain on our resources. In the end, while Southeast Shelby Rescue provides essential lifesaving services, it is still a business with expenses.  We understand that everyone is impacted by the ever changing national economic and health situations, and their own individual struggles.  It is for that reason it is even more important now than ever before that we all recognize as a community that we must all shoulder a part of the burden so that those most at risk and more disadvantaged in our community can have the lifesaving support provided by Southeast Shelby Emergency Rescue in their time of need.  It is a difficult reality to face, but one that we must face head-on.  The overall demographic of our community is one that is more likely to need some sort of Emergency Service. The thought to create a district for the community was to allow for citizen input and ownership not cause dissention amongst neighbors.  Financial issues are a fact for everyone but a solution for funding for this essential service is needed sooner than later.  All ideas suggested for increasing income will be considered and we continue to welcome input and assistance from you.  

A lot was learned during this process.  First and foremost, our goal is to continue providing exceptional EMS care to our community.  We will be formulating a plan to utilize offers for fund raising and volunteer response.  This will require a huge response from all of us.  We, the citizens of Shelby County, all pay for services we may never use (education taxes, rural wireless/internet access, home insurance, auto insurance etc.), the same is true of Fire/Emergency Medical Services.  No one wants to EVER need these services but knowing it is available, staffed and equipped for the time we DO need them is priceless. 

Since 1982, Southeast Shelby Rescue has provided Emergency Medical Services to the best of our abilities. While there is no doubt emergency response as well as response times may be impacted with the resulting vote, we will continue as always to serve this community to the best of our ability.  The budget is being reviewed and every avenue will be investigated to insure continued operation.  Times and needs have changed but our goal remains the same.