A new one-year contract with Gold Cross EMS for ambulance, emergency and non-emergency medical services was approved to move forward during the Columbia County Community and Emergency Services Committee meeting on Tuesday, April 22.
Fire and Emergency Services Chief Jeremy Wallen told committee members it is a new contract to supersede the existing one and there are a few changes, including an increase in amount from $850,000 to $1.5 million annually. It will be effective June 1.
“We are adding an additional 24-hour ALS ambulance, so we’ll have a total of eight,” Wallen said. “We’re also adding a BLS ambulance 12 hours a day Monday through Friday. We are reducing from three QRV’s to one.”
The committee approved moving the contract to the consent agenda to go before the full Board of Commissioners.
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The CES Committee also recognized Animal Services Department Manager Linda Glasscock for receiving the 2025 Georgia Animal Control Association’s Lifetime Achievement Award.
John Luton, community services director, said the award is given to a person who has dedicated their career to the field of animal control. Glasscock began with the department in 2010 and over the years has been involved in implementing the microchip program, opening the new shelter and maintained a 0% euthanasia rate.
“Thank you from the Board of Commissioners,” said Chairman Doug Duncan. “You’ve done a fantastic job and there have been times when things have gotten fairly sketchy, but you’ve maintained control and run a tight ship. The county is blessed for it.”
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Glasscock thanked her team, both past and present, because she said without them, she wouldn’t have been able to do all she’s done.
To view the full meeting, visit the Columbia County, Georgia YouTube page.
