Pulaski County Commissioners Receive Update on AED Purchases

The purchase of automated external defibrillators for Pulaski County is still on hold until Sherry Fagner from the Pulaski County Health Department can determine whether or not a grant for the AEDs is available from the state. EMS Director Nikki Lowry gave her monthly report to the commissioners this week and explained that the grant would possibly cover the cost of up to seven defibrillators, and she needs to know which county buildings would most need the life-saving devices.

Lowry also told the commissioners that the new Chevrolet truck the department received has been out of commission and in the shop since April 22 because a pump went out in the vehicle. She said they have been unable to get a direct answer as to when they would be able to get a replacement part and they’ve been getting the runaround despite leaving several voicemails and speaking to a service manager. The vehicle, she said, is under warranty, but they have not been able to get an answer as to when it could be fixed. Commission President Tracey Shorter said she would try to contact a service manager and get an answer.

Finally, Lowry informed the commissioners that because part-time employees have been cut county-wide to 28 hours per week, she will soon need to increase her roster to prevent part-timers from working overtime.