LANCASTER, N.Y. — Today, Lancaster EMS workers are sounding the alarm on new changes made to the Lancaster Volunteer Ambulance Corp.
Just a few weeks ago, the Board of LVAC sent out a message to employees informing them of drastic changes to be put in place within a matter of days.
A now-terminated employee, and current employee, shared that letter with Channel Two.
It details reducing staff hours and ambulance crews, vacation times, as well as a reduction in staff bonuses and incentives. The change in operations and schedules comes as a result of a "cash flow issue"
Zachary Ellis, who was recently terminated after sharing the letter with surrounding fire stations, spoke to Channel Two about the shared concern for the public amid the shift.
“There’s an expectation and a requirement to provide EMS services to the area and LVAC just isn’t doing that at the time being with its reduction in its services that it’s providing,” said Ellis.
In response to the recent outcry from LVAC employees, Chester Popiolkowski, President of the LVAC board, said in a statement to Channel Two: “We are continuing with a temporary schedule adjustment for our paid staff, which reduces overtime costs. LVAC volunteers are filling in where needed to maintain service and appropriate response times. Decisions and planning are done within the context of our business model, our 71 years of experience, and our full understanding of LVAC's responsibility to the community, whose residents we continue to effectively serve.”
Zachary says many employees would like to speak out but are afraid of retaliation.
Channel Two spoke with a current LVAC paramedic who wished to remain anonymous.
“I’m worried about losing my job. Zak already lost his job for speaking out to the neighboring fire departments” said the LVAC Paramedic.
As for the next steps? Ellis says, “Unfortunately the board stopped listening to its staff members so now we are hoping there’s some outside pressure from the community.”