Concerning the proximity and potential cost savings, I was asked if I would consider consolidation of any Sun Valley and Ketchum city services. Each City has unique requirements, situations and an identity. In most cases, previous studies have indicated that outright consolidation would not be cost-effective. Several joint cooperative relationships exist including EMT and ambulance service, police, fire, consolidated dispatch and KART. As our circumstances change with the growth expected in Sun Valley, we should continually evaluate consolidation and joint relationship possibilities for the benefit of each community. We should also be keenly aware of opportunities for consolidation as they arise, such as regional transportation.
I fully support the consolidation effort currently being pursued to bring KART and the Peak Bus under one regional transportation authority throughout the valley. It will also make sense to try to bring the resort’s transportation system under this authority. The regional authority will have the ability to tap into Federal funds to purchase rolling stock at very affordable rates. This will also help us work toward a fully integrated transportation system that could link to a potential new airport.
Next Time: Keeping our tourist economy healthy
Visit my website for more information: www.NilsRibi.com
2 Responses to “Nils Ribi on Consolidation of Services With Ketchum”
- Tracy Lotz Says:
October 30th, 2005 at 1:10 pm
Quite frankly the hardest part about consolidation is the potential for job loss. I think that is the politically tough part. I don’t envy anyone who has to make those decisions. If
Sun Valley and Ketchum were to completely consolidate (lets say) the Police deptartments then its easy to sell off the duplicate equipment but what do you do with the extra officers…. ??
Thanks for Blogging…
- Nils Ribi Says:
October 30th, 2005 at 2:16 pm
If the consolidation of an emergency service department turns into reality, it could be due to the lack of affordable housing, as that problem becomes even more acute. As each department continues to find it harder to fill positions, the two cities may need to seriously discuss consolidation if it is the only way to maintain the high level of service we have come to expect. Obviously, we would need to consider the various opportunity costs of such a consolidation. I would think that the elimination of jobs would be minor since our current department is already lean. In that event, I would propose that any potential consolidation be phased in over time to allow for the possible elimination of positions through attrition.
Thanks for giving us the opportunity to Blog, Tracy.
