Ketchikan Assembly to introduce $347,000 South Tongass ambulance ordinance

A fire-gutted ambulance fleet in South Tongass would get a replacement under an ordinance the Ketchikan Gateway Borough Assembly plans to introduce Monday, Oct. 5. The measure would appropriate $347,000 in federal grant money for a new ambulance and cardiac monitor for the South Tongass Volunteer Fire Department. The meeting starts at 5:30 p.m. in the Assembly Chambers, 1900 First Ave., Suite 144.

The money comes from the U.S. Health Resources and Services Administration as congressionally directed spending. The federal award record says it would buy one new ambulance on a current-model chassis and one advanced cardiac monitor and defibrillator. The award period runs from Sept. 30, 2026, through Sept. 29, 2027. The borough plans to buy the equipment through established cooperative purchasing contracts.

On April 9, 2024, a fire destroyed most of the department's apparatus and equipment, the award record says. The losses included two ambulances, two fire engines and a rescue truck. The City of Valdez provided a surplus ambulance to keep coverage in place. That ambulance is now 18 years old, and the record describes it as nearing the end of its functional service life. Alaska News previously covered the grant award in "Ketchikan Gateway Borough gets $347,000 to replace a South Tongass ambulance."

The ordinance sits on the consent calendar, according to the agenda. Consent items are considered routine. They are enacted by one motion and one vote, with no separate discussion. The mayor or any Assembly member may ask to discuss an item, and that request moves it to unfinished business.

The grant aims to restore reliable advanced life-support and transport service to the South Tongass area, the award record says. The agenda lists Ordinance 2123 as an introduction. It sets no date yet for a public hearing or a final vote.