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The *Daily Herald* has published a report detailing the First Fire Protection District of Antioch's decision not to renew its EMS contract with the Antioch Rescue Squad (ARS), marking the end of a 75-year partnership. The board announced the move on Tuesday, signaling that the volunteer-based rescue squad will no longer provide emergency services in Antioch Township or transport patients to local hospitals after May 9.
In a letter to the ARS governing board, the fire district stated it is seeking new options for EMS delivery, and will now rely on the Antioch Fire Department once the current contract expires. This shift aims to consolidate emergency services under one command, according to the district’s leadership.
ARS Chief Brian DeKind expressed his disappointment, noting that the decision ends a long legacy of service. “After 75 years, the squad will no longer be providing emergency ambulance care in Antioch,†he said. The ARS now faces an uncertain future, with members planning to meet to explore alternatives such as home health care and wellness checks.
DeKind highlighted that the squad had operated without public tax funding, relying instead on donations and memorials. However, the organization has faced significant challenges over the years. In 2012, a sexual harassment lawsuit led to an investigation by the Illinois Department of Public Health, which uncovered serious violations, including patient mistreatment, alcohol abuse among staff, and improper medication use. A former treasurer was also convicted of embezzlement, and several paramedics had their licenses suspended.
These issues contributed to a decline in trust and led to the village of Antioch terminating its contract with the ARS in 2013. Since then, the fire department has handled emergency calls in the village, while the ARS continued serving the township. Now, with the fire district also ending its partnership, the ARS is left with limited options—either restructure, seek new clients, or disband.
Fire Chief John Nixon assured residents that there would be no disruption in emergency services when the change takes effect. Meanwhile, the First Fire Protection District and the village are working toward a unified EMS model, supported by a proposed tax levy that will be voted on in November 2014.
DeKind remains hopeful, stating that the ARS wants to continue serving the community, even if it means shifting to a different role. “We’re looking at all possibilities,†he said. “Our goal is to keep helping people, just in a new way.â€