Jefferson Township Ambulance Purchase Draws Criticism Over Cost

JEFFERSON TOWNSHIP — Questions are being raised regarding the cost of a new ambulance and related equipment approved by the Jefferson Township Council earlier this month.

A document circulating online criticizes the township’s recent approval of a Ford F550 ambulance purchase totaling $409,734, along with a separate purchase of a Stryker Power-Pro 2 ambulance cot and accessories for $90,992.06. The combined expenditure exceeds $500,000.

The criticism follows the June 10 Township Council meeting, during which council members unanimously approved resolutions authorizing the purchases. According to township documents, the cot and accessories were purchased through the New Jersey Cooperative Purchasing Alliance contract with Stryker Sales LLC in an amount not to exceed $90,992.06.

The online commentary alleges the purchases represent excessive spending and questions whether taxpayers are receiving value for the investment. The author compares the approved costs to what is described as a “fully equipped ready for service” ambulance costing approximately $325,000, although no documentation supporting that figure was provided.

The council resolution authorizing the cot purchase states that the equipment is needed by the township and was procured through an approved cooperative purchasing contract, a process commonly used by municipalities to streamline purchasing and potentially reduce costs through pre-negotiated pricing.

Modern ambulances have become increasingly expensive in recent years due to rising vehicle costs, advanced medical equipment requirements, safety features, supply chain challenges and customization needed to meet emergency medical service standards. Depending on specifications and equipment levels, ambulance prices can vary significantly among manufacturers and municipalities.

The online criticism also references recent property tax reassessment notices mailed to township residents and suggests residents should scrutinize municipal spending decisions. No evidence was presented in the document to support allegations of corruption or wrongdoing related to the purchases.

Township officials have not publicly responded to the allegations contained in the online commentary.

The ambulance and cot purchases remain approved by the Township Council and are expected to be acquired through the authorized contracts.