Niemann Will Work w/Attorneys on Settlement w/Ambulance Service

The Effingham County Board Friday directed Board Chairman Jim Niemann to work with the County's attorneys on implementation of a settlement with Altamont Ambulance Service.

The motion was to direct Niemann to work with the attorneys to "prepare all of the documents, contracts, ordinances and resolutions necessary" to implement the terms this settlement discussed in Court this past Wednesday. In a written statement, Niemann said once the documents are prepared, reviewed and approved, another Board meeting will be called to formally approve the settlement.

The statement reads "the settlement involves many people and numerous moving parts." While the preparation, review and approval of the contractual documents will not happen overnight, the parties have agreed to "fast track" the preparation and review of the documents to complete the settlement process.

Niemann's statement reads "I have been cautioned by the Court and attorneys to withhold comment on the specific terms of the settlement until all of the documents have been approved and signed. I am, however, able to share some of the comments made by Judge (Allan) Lolie after our conference on Wednesday. Judge Lolie congratulated and thanked the Board, (Altamont Ambulance Service operator) Mr. (Terry) White, his employees and the attorneys for overcoming the difficult hurdles which previously appeared to be insurmountable and avoiding an extended jury trial. He also commented that the terms of the settlement appeared to be fair to all parties and would avoid the future expense and uncertainties associated with litigation."

When asked how long it would take to complete the paperwork, Niemann estimated another 10 days to two weeks.