Hall Commission remembers 911; ambulance cost going up

GAINESVILLE - Heads were bowed at the beginning of Thursday night's Hall County commission meeting to honor the terrorist attack victims of Sept. 11, 2001.

Commission Chairman Tom Oliver called for a moment of silence; the observance capped a full day of 9-11 ceremonies at area schools and emergency facilities.

"For the many who have given their lives because of 9-11, we stop for a few moments to remember them," said Hall County Fire Services Chaplain John Kinsey.

AMBULANCE COST GOING UP

Hall County commissioners gave final unanimous approval to an average 14 percent increase on ambulance fees.

Fire Services Chief David Kimbrell said the fee hike was necessary to keep up with national and local trends and lessen emergency service costs.

"These fees are pretty much in line," Kimbrell said. "This is where we need to be to get the most reimbursement from Medicare/Medicaid."

Kimbrell said rates have not increased in six years, while expenses have risen by 55 percent or $1.8 million; commissioners also approved a $9 mileage charge for ambulance transport in and outside the county.

http://accesswdun.com/article/2008/9/213213