Among other things addressed at the August 21 session of the Wheeler County Court, the court discussed the challenges facing the community of Fossil since the volunteer ambulance was suspended in July 2024.
The Wheeler County Court held its regular session meeting on August 21 at the Jeannie Birch Building in Fossil.
The court approved the hiring of Brandy Hornbrook for the Victim of Crime Advocate (VOCA) position.
The Victim of Crime Advocate supports victims through the criminal justice system. They assist victims of all age ranges, including victims of child abuse, stalking, elder abuse, sexual assault, domestic violence, and even homicide.
Carol MacInnis has held that position and is retiring.
Hornbrook also serves as the county's Juvenile Director, which is responsible for supporting youth between 12-17 that commit law violations. The Department also helps to refer children to DHS that are experiencing neglect or abuse.
The court also discussed the challenges that volunteer ambulances are facing. The volunteer ambulance service in Fossil was suspended in July and Judge Morley discussed conversations that he has had in recent weeks with state lawmakers. An Emergency Management meeting, which discussed ambulance and rural fire funding for all three counties was set to be discussed. Judge Morley said that there could, potentially, be "several hundred thousand dollars" coming from the state.
The court also discussed the need to get all players at the table, including Asher Clinic, to find a path forward. Judge Morley said that he has been reviewing the founding documents of the Wheeler County Health District, that was founded in 1994.
Fossil Mayor Terri Hunt said that those documents included 24/7 coverage for home health services. Such services could help to limit the need for EMTs and ambulance services, Mayor Hunt said.
Another option that is being discussed, said Judge Morley, is contracting with an outside ambulatory crew.
In other news, the court accepted John Asher's resignation notice as Director of the Wheeler County Transportation program.
Judge Morley also gave updates on road projects, including work being done on Winlock Road as a result of the Lone Rock Fire and the vehicles that used the road extensively.
The County Court has also worked to arrange a meeting to look at the communication flaws that occurred during the Lone Rock Fire. That meeting will occur at 10 AM on Tuesday, September 3 at the Jeannie Birch Building in Fossil.
Reader Comments(0)