New rate structures will soon be in place for those receiving ambulance transport service from the Grand Junction Fire Department. City council members passed the resolution Monday night, after coming to a split decision during their last meeting. During the meeting, Interim Fire Chief told council members the rates have not increased since the late 1980's and without the rate hike, the city's ambulance services would see a deficit of $4.5M during the department's five–year contract. The fire department will be able to charge the county's maximum allowable rate and while rates will increase, tax payers city–wide will not have to brunt the costs. The rates will most likely be evaluated and possibly adjusted early next year by Mesa County's Commissioners.
