Red Deer City Council today received detailed information and analysis to support an upcoming decision about the future of Emergency Medical Services (EMS), commonly known as ambulance services, in Red Deer.
Today’s discussion focused on sharing current data, financial considerations, and potential service delivery options following recent changes to provincial funding. No decisions were made at today’s meeting.
Administration presented Council with an overview of the current integrated Fire and EMS model, the Province’s proposed funding approach, and potential implications moving forward. The Province has indicated it will fund EMS at a standardized rate that is lower than The City’s current cost to deliver the integrated model.
“As a municipality, our role today was to ensure Council has the information they need to make a thoughtful and informed decision on May 12,” said City Manager Tara Lodewyk. “This includes a clear understanding of what has changed, what the options are, and the potential impacts to service, finances, and our community.”
Council is expected to consider several potential paths forward, including:
- Continuing to provide EMS integrated services (additional tax increase required)
- Maintaining current funding levels and pursuing a competitive process within the current allocated budget (no tax increase)
- Transitioning out of EMS service delivery entirely (no tax increase)
Each option carries different financial, operational, and community implications, which were outlined through Administration’s analysis.
Currently, The City of Red Deer delivers EMS through an integrated Fire and EMS model, responding to more than 21,000 EMS calls annually. The future model for how ambulance services will be delivered in the community remains to be determined.
“There are no simple answers in front of Council. This is a decision with many layers, and it’s important we take the time to fully understand the implications. We want to acknowledge the strong interest and perspectives in our community and ensure they are considered respectfully as we move forward,” said Mayor Cindy Jefferies.
City Council is expected to make a decision on how to proceed at its meeting on May 12, 2026, in advance of upcoming provincial timelines.
“We recognize this is an important and complex decision,” said Lodewyk. “Our focus is on ensuring Council has the time, space, and information needed to determine the best path forward for the community.”
Residents can learn more about EMS service delivery and follow updates at www.reddeer.ca