PORT ARTHUR, Texas — The City of Port Arthur is once again being served by two ambulance services after Acadian Ambulance signed on again.
Acadian had declined to sign its yearly contract in early November about a week after City Ambulance started working alongside them to serve the City of Port Arthur. Acadian has had a 17 year relationship with the city.
The new contract, which is good through November 30, 2024, was signed on Tuesday afternoon according to Port Arthur Fire Chief Greg Benson.
Acadian began taking calls in the city at 6 a.m. Wednesday morning.
"Now we have two services and there is a commitment to make sure they collaborate together to provide an appropriate level of service," Benson said Wednesday
The city's contract with Acadian is on a year-to-year basis and requires the company to follow the city's ordinance for ambulances, Benson told 12News on Wednesday.
City leaders brought in City Ambulance to work with Acadian to address response times in the city.
Acadian's decision in November to not sign the contract was sudden and unexpected, Benson told 12News at the time.
Acadian's reasoning comes from a specific city ordinance. Chapter 114 Article 2, which details the types of emergency medical personnel.
Eric Thibadeaux, Acadian's Regional Director said they are just looking for a fair contract.
"There were some language issues from a legal perspective. We just want a contract that is fair and equitable for both EMS services. We just want a contract that is fair and equitable for both sides and both ems agencies," he said.
Thibadeaux said the resumption of service followed productive discussions with city officials and council members.
"The City Council affirmed a fair rotation of ambulances between Acadian and City Ambulance and verified their understanding of our issues with the response zones.
And Chief Benson is pleased with the outcome.
"To make sure we had enough emergency medical resources that given whatever scenario occurred. That we were able to serve everybody," he said.
Which is exactly what both EMS providers plan to do under the Port Arthur's Ambulance Emergency Response Zones Map saying section of the map will be serviced by City Ambulance. While Section B and Sabine Pass will be serviced by Acadian.
All in efforts to help the public.