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City of Hastings City Council Minutes March 5, 2007 Page 3 of 4 Appeal of Denial of Write Off of Ambulance Bills (Gerald Erickson) Chief Mark Holmes and Mr. Gerald Erickson both gave presentations from their perspectives views concerning a write off and/or reduction of Mr. Erickson's ambulance bills following a deer accident on November 8, 2006 on Hwy 46/47. Councilmember Schultz questioned who makes the final decision on ambulance transports when a patient has made known they do not want a ride. Chief Holmes said the decision rests with the attending paramedic or the attending physician. If the patient is unable to make a rational decision or if walking is problematic, the paramedics use "implied consent" and are mandated to transport or risk liability due to abandonment. Councilmember Riveness questioned if Mr. Erickson had sustained a head injury. Chief Holmes informed council that Mr. Erickson had received a skull fracture in the accident. Mayor Hicks expressed concern about the City's liability and asked Chief Holmes if the Fire Department had a payment policy in place for hardship cases. Mayor Hicks hesitated to set a precedent on writing off an ambulance bill. Chief Holmes responded that the Fire Department has always been willing to accept monthly payments in any amount towards ambulance bills. Councilmember Riveness requested the Fire Department review their current policy and consider changing to reflect a minimum monthly payment. Councilmember Schultz asked Chief Holmes to research different avenues in both the state of Wisconsin where Mr. Erickson resides, and the state of Minnesota where he works to assist Mr. Erickson in paying his bill. Chief Holmes agreed to check on this request. Moved by Councilmember Alongi, seconded by Councilmember Slavik to deny appeal. 6 Ayes, Nays, None. Public Works Garage and City Hall Renovation Concepts and Architectural and Engineering Services Agreement City Administrator David Osberg recommended approval to proceed with TKDA to the next stage of design development and opinion of probable cost of renovation of City Hall and the Public Works Administration. Moved by Councilmember Riveness, seconded by Councilmember Hollenbeck to approve as presented 6 Ayes, Nays, None. CounciUStaff Goals Report and Schedule Special City Council Meeting on April 30, 2007 City Administrator David Osberg recommended scheduling a Special City Council Meeting on April 30, 2007 with the caveat of flexibility to reschedule if necessary depending on session work at the Capitol. City Administrator Osberg recommended another formal meeting be scheduled later this year to see if we the Council and staff are staying on track with the adopted goals and to assure that our new councilmembers are taking an active role in the different City Committees. Moved by Councilmember Slavik, seconded by Councilmember Hollenbeck to approve as presented 6 Ayes, Nays, None.