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ORANGE COUNTY, 1~bRTH CAROLINA <br />IbOR L~ONOMIC CLIMATE <br />Costs associated with providing emergency services are difficult to manage <br />in a poor economy. A growth in the demand for services may result in cost increases, <br />without any additional sources of revenue. <br />IMPROVING ECONOMIC CLIMATE <br />A strong or improving economy may result in an increase in development in <br />parts of the County with limited public safety services. ACounty-wide strategic plan <br />for fire and emergency services will relate anticipated growth to public safety needs. <br />THIRD PARTY BILLING <br />The amount of revenue from ambulance fees and charges is subject to the <br />uncertainty associated with governmental controls and legislation. Medicare costs are <br />subject to change and should be carefully monitored. <br />DATA C~:NERATION <br />Lack of sound information is a weakness and a threat to the fire, rescue, and <br />emergency service system. Limited information makes decision-making difficult, <br />since assumptions about response demand may not be based on facts. Planning <br />requires sound information. <br />COORDINATION FAILURES <br />The lack of consistent coordination may have consequences in a major <br />emergency. While we are not aware of any coordination failure, a complex service <br />delivery system has the potential for failure. Clear communication protocols, <br />updated mutual aid plans, and joint training exercises help prevent failures. <br />STRAINED RELATIONSHIPS <br />Conflict, lack of confidence, and poor communication among service providers <br />may cause an emergency response system to deteriorate. Strong relationships are <br />essential in a complex emergency response system. <br />FAILURE TO ALAN <br />The fire, rescue, and emergency service providers in the County often plan for <br />incidents and events. However, there is a need to consider the future of service <br />delivery and the demands which maybe placed upon the County-wide system. <br />~} MMA CONSULTING GkOUP, INC. $j <br />