City Council approves an increase in ambulance fees
By Paul Hall on Monday, April 12th, 2021 in More Top Stories Northeastern Oregon News
LA GRANDE – During the latest La Grande City Council meeting there were several items on the agenda. The City Council approved an increase in ambulance fees for the first time since 2009. The new structure includes non-resident and resident rates given City residents pay property taxes. The new rates take effect in July. Billing for patients who are covered by Medicare and Medicaid will continue to be capped at the federal limits.
The City Council approved a hiring incentive of up to $6,000 to try to attract experienced, certified police officers to fill current vacancies. Chief Gary Bell noted that the Department is losing several officers due to retirements and he hopes the incentive will bring in lateral hires, reducing costs of training and getting Police Officers on the street up to four months sooner than inexperienced hires. The Council authorized the City Manager to enter into an agreement with Community Connections to provide financial help to City of La Grande residents who are not able to pay their utility bills. The $20,000 of funding could be used for utilities including gas, electricity, water, and sewer.
