| Calhoun EMS Director Josh Johnson gave a status report to the Calhoun Commission yesterday regarding problems experienced by his agency when an employee failed to perform delegated duties.
Johnson presented a copy of a recent outside audit, which he said accounted for all money.
County Clerk Richard Kirby questioned why the audit did not reveal problems experienced by the agency.
Johnson said a former employee caused "serious problems" for the agency when that employee did not make worker's compensation payments in a timely manner.
Since the problem occurred, state worker's comp pushed EMS's rates to the maximum level for one year, costing an estimated $30,000, Johnson said.
He said there have been penalties or fines related to not making timely payments.
Johnson described the problems as a form of "mis-appropriation," but an investigation did not warrant criminal prosecution.
"We've never failed to meet our obligations and we're moving ahead," said Johnson.
Calhoun EMS recently scored 95% compliance for the delivery of medical services in a state performance audit.
"We're very proud of that," he said.
Johnson said Calhoun EMS is working on obtaining some new ambulances, since they have well over 100,000 miles.
Johnson indicated concerns have been expressed regarding his mother being on the official EMS board.
He said she has always withheld her vote when the issue involved his participation, indicating the problem can easily be corrected, provided someone appropriate from Center District volunteers for the un-paid position.
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