Council approves ambulance collection service

     Since Gov. Kim Reynolds’ disaster declaration extending the closure of businesses through April 30, the City of Monticello modified its original April 13 opening to coincide with the State of Iowa.

     This extension now also includes the closure of city park facilities, and playground equipment within city and school parks.

     “Parks and greenspaces are still open,” noted Mayor Brian Wolken during the April 6 council meeting.

     Parks and Recreation Director Jacob Oswald said per conversations with the state department, anything that the public might share in terms of equipment is off limits. However, he said the Baty Disc Golf Course can remain open.

     City Administrator Doug Herman clarified that Reynolds closed down the activities inside all golf club/country clubs, but golf courses can also remain open. (Be cautious of the rules associated with each golf course.)

     In an effort to collect past ambulance fees, the council approved an agreement between the city and Credit Bureau Services of Iowa. This would be the first time the city has utilized a collection service for delinquent ambulance fees.

     Currently ambulance bills are sent to PCC (the billing company). If those bills aren’t collected within 60 days, they’re turned over to the city, proposing a payment plan for the patient. All delinquent bills are also turned over to the Iowa Offset Program. Herman shared that the city typically collects between $5,000 and $8,000 a year through this process.

     “In some cases, we never got any money,” shared Herman.

     He added that the Credit Bureau has been around for 60 years, and has worked with several ambulance agencies in that time.

     “They have a good reputation,” said Herman. “They do a good job to try and collect (money) in a reasonable manner.”

     Herman said by turning claims over to the Credit Bureau he isn’t sure how much will be collected, but it definitely would be in excess of what the city is collecting now. Herman estimates $15,000 a year.

     The Credit Bureau will also be making money per the number of claims they successfully collect.

     Council member Brenda Leonard asked what happens to someone who truly does not have the means to pay the ambulance fee.

     “Then they don’t,” answered Herman. “We’re only successful if people have the means to pay. We’re collecting from those who choose not to pay.”

     Herman further explained the company would identify those patients who have the capability and likelihood to pay. This information would include the person’s income, work experience, etc.

     Police Chief Britt Smith added that by going through the Bureau, this will not reflect poorly on the patient, meaning it won’t impact their credit score.

     “This is a good practice for the future,” said Wolken. “It’s a good long-term strategy for the ambulance department.”

     “This will improve their bottom line,” added Council member Dave Goedken.

In other city business:

   • The council approved the first pay request from Crawford Company in the amount of $47,129.50 related to the Berndes Center HVAC project.

     • The council approved the purchase of a wing mower/brushhog mower from John Deere in the amount of $11,975. This piece of equipment would be used by the Water/Wastewater Department, as well as Public Works, and Parks and Rec.

     • The council set a public hearing for Monday, May 4 at 6 p.m. to amend the FY 2020 city budget.

     • Oswald reported that he had to notify two wedding parties who booked the Berndes Center that it would remain closed through April 30. He also asked the council for direction on a wedding booked in June. The council agreed a full refund was ok for the June wedding if they chose to cancel.