The Stuart City Council met in special session Thursday night. Two inspections of the Stuart Rescue Department took centerstage at the meeting. State Inspector Ellen Woods and Panora EMS Coordinator Joe Hupp both presented their findings in separate audits. Woods began by saying that while there were issues that need to be corrected at the department, they can be fixed quickly if the department focuses on them.

“You take what’s working and what’s not working and you move forward. My philosophy is that we do what we can to get you back up and running well.”

According to the report, Woods compiled there were about 20 inconsistencies at the department, primarily dealing with improper documentation and protocols not being followed. Hupp, who was hired by the City as a consultant, echoed Woods’ comments in his remarks. Both emphasized that there is no fault with department staff and volunteers commitment to emergency medicine and praised their attitudes, work ethic, and response times.

The EMS department has thirty days to correct the issues cited by Woods. Staff at the meeting and members of the Council all expressed their commitment to meeting the deadline and continuing to offer quality service in the community.