By Mike Finney

DOVER — When Ambulnz handed the city’s Legislative, Finance and Administration Committee a proposal March 12 to provide service that came in $600,000 less than the second-cheapest bid, eyebrows were raised, and the matter was tabled.

However, after receiving more information, the committee exited a special session prior to Monday’s City Council meeting and accepted staff’s recommendation — to award Ambulnz the contract for emergency medical transport, beginning July 1.

Council members then unanimously passed the measure with no discussion.

The decision allows Ambulnz to provide transportation to the city for a three-year period — with the option of a one-time, two-year extension. The service would be separate from any fire department or Kent County transport.

The company will take the reins from St. Francis, which had been providing its work to the city for five years, at a cost of $100,000 annually.

The Ambulnz contract is $600,000 for its first year and adds 5% escalators in years two ($630,000) and three ($661,500).

That price is $600,000 less than the next cheapest proposal, for the first year of service by the Volunteer Medical Service Corps.

“What it really boils down to is fiscal responsibility,” said Kay Sass, Dover’s public affairs and emergency management coordinator. “As we all know, this is a very tight fiscal year for us, and we’re facing a multimillion-dollar deficit currently that we’re trying to hone in on and close ... up, so that was a great consideration.

“If you see the cost comparisons, that’s really where this comes into play. Due to the largest point being fiscal responsibility, Ambulnz was the staff recommendation.”

The change in service became necessary when, in August 2023, Dover received notification from St. Francis to terminate its $100,000 contract because that price did not allow the provider to cover its expenses, and it could no longer absorb the difference.

Ms. Sass said the four proposals from the prospective providers — including St. Francis — were similarly structured, but Ambulnz stood out with its lower price.

“Ms. Sass did an exceptional job in providing answers to my questions, as well as questions from other City Council members,” said Councilman Brian Lewis. “A decision came after a careful review process and reflects the city’s commitment to providing exceptional emergency care.

“I am sure there will be some bumps in the road when Ambulnz first gets started, like with any new company coming into the city, but I am hopeful that those bumps can get flattened out as quickly as possible.”

Councilman Fred Neil said it made sense to table the matter earlier, considering the large gap between the bids.

“I am satisfied that the staff did their due diligence in checking with other users, including Bayhealth, that Ambulnz is reliable,” he said. “I understand that Bayhealth uses them as a transportation company, rather than for (emergency medical) services.

“Not only was their bid half of the other bidders’, but our contract specifically requests that EMS personnel who may lose their job be hired by Ambulnz to provide professionals who have provided Dover with admirable service.”

Councilman Neil also pointed out that the contract includes a safety net.

“Our contract with Ambulnz provides 90-day windows to end the contract should they not perform as required,” he said. “This is our fail-safe for the public we serve.”

The company will be dedicating five Type 1 ambulances to the city — running three full time and having two on standby — and will prioritize having a pair of EMTs with Dover experience onboard.

“The delay in the final vote allowed the City Council to make certain the t’s were crossed and i’s were dotted,” Councilman Neil said.