Erin Hill
Gadsden County News ServiceIn an effort to combat critical staffing shortages in emergency medical services, Gadsden County commissioners have unanimously approved a $5,000 sign-on bonus for newly hired paramedics. The decision follows a proposal from new Emergency Medical Services Chief Dewayne Ford, who outlined a multi-step plan aimed at stabilizing the department and attracting qualified personnel.
Ford, who said the department is currently operating at half its needed staff and has only one paramedic, stressed the urgency of addressing the shortage.
“I have a PRN pool of EMTs I can pull from, but the issue is my paramedics,” Ford told the board. He noted that three EMTs have already signed contracts to attend paramedic school under the county’s sponsorship program.
The approved sign-on bonus will be paid out in four quarterly installments of $1,250 over a one-year period, contingent on continued employment and satisfactory performance. Interim County Attorney Louis Baptiste emphasized that this structure protects the county from having to recoup funds if an employee leaves early. “Recouping funds is always difficult,” Baptiste said.
Commissioner Shawn Wood voiced concerns about fairness to veteran staff, questioning how longtime employees would feel about new hires receiving bonuses. “You got some guys in EMS that’s been here… and I want to say the new guy comes in and makes the same thing they make, but gets more money,” Wood said. “What is the difference between what the 10-year guy makes and the new guy makes?”
In response, Ford said the sign-on bonus is one part of a broader four-step strategy to strengthen the department. In addition to the bonus, the plan includes transitioning to a 24/72 shift schedule, expanding the PRN pool, and launching a junior apprenticeship program that will mentor high school seniors pursuing EMT certification.
Commissioners Eric Hinson and Brenda Holt suggested alternatives that would give the full $5,000 bonus up front in exchange for longer commitments, but Ford cautioned that stretching the bonus over two years would dilute its impact and potentially reduce its effectiveness as a recruitment tool.
“My main concern is they would get the $5,000 and leave,” he said.
Despite differing opinions on the best approach, the board ultimately supported Ford’s recommendation. The sign-on bonus is expected to make Gadsden County more competitive in Florida’s tight EMS job market, where agencies across the state are struggling to recruit certified paramedics.
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