The subject of the longest discussion at the December 21 Ada Village Council meeting was brought to the floor during the public comments section by Adriane Thompson Bradshaw, Ohio Northern’s Vice President for Student Affairs. She asked if transportation methods in Ada of individuals who are suicidal was going to change.

Ada Liberty EMS Chief Tom Miller had notified her that in the new year law enforcement should transport such individuals. Council assured Bradshaw that any changes required their approval and further communication.

In the discussion that ensued, staffing levels were identified as a problem for all involved. Council members, Police Chief Harnishfeger, Legal Council Jane Napier, Rebecca Diller, (Assistant Director of Counseling) and Bradshaw explained how cases have been handled in the past. Individuals have been transported by the police, EMS, and Hardin County Sheriff’s Department. 

Bradshaw noted that many suicidal emergencies develop in early morning hours and are often reported to students who are resident advisors. University counseling services are available during business hours on weekdays. 

Harnishfeger explained that law enforcement can evaluate individuals who are suicidal and issue an EMC, Emergency Medical Commitment. Mental health professionals can also issue an EMC. He noted that when drugs are involved, the EMS and ambulance are also required.

Staffing and demand levels were reviewed. The Ada Police Department is in the process of interviewing for open positions. ONU Campus Security has one or two employees working at a time. The ONU representatives estimated that some 6-8 cases involving students had happened during the fall 2021 semester. EMS has reported 69 runs in December.

It was determined that a meeting of the university and all parties involved in responding to calls for service was needed. The next Ada-Liberty EMS board meeting is scheduled for January 17, 2022.