Accomack County finalizes key agreements to ensure continuity of EMS services in southern Region

In response to the upcoming discontinuation of ambulance services by the Wachapreague Volunteer Fire Company, Accomack County has finalized critical agreements aimed at maintaining uninterrupted emergency medical services in the southern portion of the county.

Effective July 1, 2025, the County will purchase two fully equipped ambulances from the Wachapreague Volunteer Fire Company for a total of $300,000. This date aligns with the implementation of the County’s newly approved ambulance fees, the commencement of all applicable EMS insurance coverage, and the lease of housing space for the ambulances.

To support this transition, the County has also entered into a lease agreement with the Painter Volunteer Fire Company to house the ambulances. Under the terms of the lease, the County will pay $3,500 per month starting July 1, 2025. Notably, the agreement includes a provision for the Painter Volunteer Fire Company to donate an additional ambulance to the County, which the County has agreed to accept.

These coordinated actions stem from a directive by the Accomack County Board of Supervisors, instructing the County Administrator to develop and implement the necessary agreements to ensure EMS coverage remains consistent following Wachapreague’s decision to end its ambulance services later this year.

County officials emphasized that these agreements are essential to preserving vital emergency response capabilities and reflect a proactive approach to regional public safety planning.