The Dallas County Board of Supervisors met in regular session on Tuesday.

The board has had ongoing conversations about reviewing any county space needs with several entities. On Tuesday, the focus was on the Emergency Medical Services Department Station that’s located along River Street in Adel. Farnsworth Group Architect Principal Kristofer Orth presented the board with a concept design of refurbishing the station by building six sleeping rooms and three showers in addition to other facility upgrades. 

Orth explained that Farnworth Group could work with the conservation board to reroute the Raccoon River Valley Trail, since it crosses in front of the EMS station, and sometimes can cause issues for the organization’s ability to respond quickly. He said the total cost of the renovation would cost $3.9 million.

Dallas County EMS Director of Operations Kristin Brady noted that the organization is currently on a 24-hour work cycle, emphasizing the need for the showers and sleeping rooms. Supervisor Chair Kim Chapman thought the county would be spending a lot of money, and suggested if EMS could operate in a 12-hour cycle, it would eliminate the need for several showers and sleeping rooms. Supervisors Brad Golightly and Julia Helm agreed with Chapman’s assessments and decided to discuss their concerns with the City of Adel to see what would be the best approach for residents and the EMS Department.

There were no other items on the agenda and the board shortly adjourned following the discussion.