Antioch looks into merging fire & EMS

The Lake County News-Sun recently published an article discussing the potential merger of emergency medical services (EMS) with the Antioch Fire Department. This move is being considered as officials work to address ongoing concerns about the performance and management of the Antioch Rescue Squad (ARS). To ensure continued oversight, Antioch officials have extended ARS’s contract for another 90 days. This extension allows local leaders to monitor whether the organization is following guidelines set by the Illinois Department of Public Health. The decision comes after a state investigation uncovered serious issues within ARS, including allegations of unprofessional conduct, breaches of confidentiality, improper use of medications and IV fluids, patient mistreatment, and even paramedics working under the influence of alcohol. These problems were partly attributed to a lack of strong leadership within the non-profit organization. Village Trustee Ted Poulos emphasized the importance of maintaining a continuous contract, stating, “I don’t want to go for any period of time without a contract. If there's a break in the contract, we won't have any oversight of their operations.” Village Administrator James Keim conducted a comprehensive review of the EMS system in Antioch and authored a 14-page report titled *“Village of Antioch EMS Delivery Report.”* In it, he expressed admiration for the work done by ARS but also highlighted the need for change. His conclusion was clear: merging rescue and fire services would bring the village in line with neighboring communities in terms of paramedic staffing and service quality. Currently, ARS has 21 paramedics and 14 EMTs, while the fire department has 32 paramedics and 12 EMTs. Combining the two would result in 53 paramedics and 26 EMTs—significantly above the average of 40 paramedics and 21 EMTs found in six other nearby communities that operate under their fire departments. The First Fire Protection District, which serves the township, has also renewed its 90-day contract with ARS. Over the next few months, officials from both the village and the fire protection district will explore ways to better coordinate rescue services, including the possibility of full integration. Keim suggested that while a merger could be beneficial, it should be managed under a single command structure. He stressed that his goal isn’t to eliminate ARS but to find a balanced approach that ensures high-quality emergency care for residents. Fire Chief John Nixon, who oversees the fire department, supports extending the ARS contract. While his team could quickly take over rescue services if needed, he remains open to collaboration. This development reflects a broader effort to improve public safety and service delivery in Antioch. As the community moves forward, the focus will be on ensuring stability, accountability, and efficiency in emergency response. The complete article is HERE. Thanks, Jeff.

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