Ulster County Executive Jen Metzger joined local leaders and emergency medical service (EMS) providers this week to unveil a comprehensive strategy to bolster EMS delivery across the county. The new EMS Coordinated Coverage Plan includes a proposed $4.9 million investment to strengthen existing services, enhance workforce development, and ensure more reliable emergency response, particularly in underserved areas.
The plan was presented at a press conference alongside Everett Erichsen, Director of the County’s Department of Emergency Services; Amanda Gotto, Supervisor of New Paltz; Marybeth Majestic, Gardiner Town Supervisor; and Matt Goodnow, CEO of the New Paltz Rescue Squad.
A cornerstone of the plan includes $2.8 million to fund the cost of readiness for core Advanced Life Support (ALS) agencies. ALS services, which require paramedics and provide a higher level of care than Basic Life Support (BLS), account for nearly two-thirds of 911 calls in the county.
An additional $1.6 million will support EMS agencies contracted by municipalities, with a focus on incentivizing high response rates. A separate $500,000 grant program will allow BLS agencies to purchase advanced medical equipment, with training support provided by the county’s Emergency Services Department.
Metzger also announced new training and certification initiatives as part of her 2025 Executive Budget to address the ongoing shortage of EMS personnel.
“EMS is a critical public health service, and right now we are facing serious gaps due to rising costs and a drop in volunteer responders,” said Metzger. “This plan will help close those gaps, reduce response times, and ensure that our residents get timely, life-saving care.”
Emergency Services Director Everett Erichsen emphasized the plan’s long-term goals: “This isn’t just about money. It’s a forward-thinking framework designed to create a sustainable, patient-centered EMS system. By improving coordination and investing in the workforce, we’re laying the foundation for lasting improvements.”
Ulster County is also applying for a Municipal Certificate of Need (MuniCON) from the New York State Department of Health. If approved, it would allow the county to directly partner with local EMS providers to ensure ALS coverage in areas currently lacking services. The MuniCON would give the county oversight of EMS contracts and performance, creating a more unified and financially viable system.
Legislator Jason J. Kovacs praised the initiative, saying, “This effort is about ensuring equitable emergency care for all residents—no matter where they live. It also shows our commitment to the paramedics and EMTs who are essential to public safety.”
For more information on the EMS Coordinated Coverage Plan, visit participate.ulstercountyny.gov/ems-plan.