Interim Washington County ambulance director resigns

WASHINGTON — Washington County Ambulance Service Interim Director Pat Curl submitted a letter of resignation Thursday morning, according to other county officials. The move comes just over two weeks after he was appointed to the position.

The department has seen more than its share of controversy in recent months, after the suspension of then-director Jeremy Peck following unclear human resources complaints and several closed sessions. In the mean time, discussions on paramedic pay and ambulance transfer services have also proven contentious.

County Supervisor Jack Seward Jr. and an ambulance department staff member speaking on the condition of anonymity confirmed the delivery of a resignation letter from Curl, but both have declined to comment on its details, citing legal concerns.

“Until we can consult with the county attorney (he is in trial this week) and our HR people, it wouldn’t be proper for anyone to comment,” Seward said.

A public record request to the county’s human resources department for the letter of resignation did not get an immediate reply. Pat Curl also did not immediately respond to an email requesting comments.

An agenda for the upcoming Board of Supervisors meeting Nov. 22 released Friday morning included “discussion and action regarding Washington County Ambulance Services Interim Director” as an action item. Other ambulance-related action items on the list included personnel change requests and a possible “independent audit” of the service’s billing department.

Comments: Kalen.McCain@southeastiowaunion.com