City Councilors are talking about revamping ambulance service in Duluth.

Right now, Gold Cross is the only ambulance provider in the city, but things could significantly change down the road.

When emergencies happen in Duluth, city councilors say firefighters often respond as well as a private ambulance. Now city councilors are taking a look at whether the Duluth F.D. should take on a bigger role.

"I feel that the best service would be having our firefighters as the paramedics--as the ambulance service for the City of Duluth," said Jeff Anderson, Duluth city councilor

Councilors say an idea being tossed around involves having most Duluth firefighters trained as paramedics. Down the road, officials say there's a possibility that the fire department could handle all medical-related calls exclusively.

"The fire department responds to medical calls and more times than not, are the first on the scene," said Anderson.

City councilors say talks are still in the early stages, but Gold Cross spokespeople say they have significant concerns about the idea.

"This is in our opinion not the time to invest tax dollars in an operation that is currently meeting the needs of the communities," said Tom Fennell of Gold Cross.

Some argue with more stations across the City, the fire department can beat Gold Cross to calls.

"Can the fire department get there quicker then current ambulance service--sometimes they can," said Tony Cuneo, Duluth city councilor.

But Gold Cross says they're not about phase-out.

"We really have no intentions of walking away," said Fennell.

Gold Cross also voiced concerns about tax increases, as a result of having firefighters fill the shoes of trained paramedics.

"I don't see that happening at all, because this actually generates possible revenue stream for the city," said Anderson.

Officials say it's likely a task force will be appointed to study the issue.
If the plan were to come to fruition, experts say city and state approval would be required.