CLEAR SPRING, MD (December 16, 2025) – The Washington County Division of Emergency Services (DES) is pleased to announce the approval of the Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Employee Transition Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Clear Spring Ambulance Club, Inc. This agreement, officially endorsed by the Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) today, December 16, 2025, transitions all current full-time four (4) and part-time three (3) EMS field employees into County employment and authorizes hiring an additional four (4) full-time EMS employees to fill existing vacancies.
The Clear Spring Ambulance Club, serving residents of Clear Spring and surrounding areas, provides critical EMS services to the community. The transition of their EMS staff into County employment aims to enhance service delivery, improve workforce stability, and ensure continued excellence in emergency care.
“We are excited to work together with Clear Spring to strengthen EMS coverage in the region,” said R. David Hays, Director of Washington County Division of Emergency Services. “This transition will provide stability for our personnel while enhancing service for our residents.”
Board of County Commissioners President John Barr added, “This partnership demonstrates a shared commitment to reliable, high-quality emergency medical services. We look forward to supporting Clear Spring as they take this important step forward.”
“This transition allows us to focus on providing the best possible care to our community,” said David Glaze, President of the Clear Spring Ambulance Club. “By joining forces with the County, we are building a sustainable staffing plan that benefits both our team and the public we serve.”
David Irvin, Chief of the Clear Spring Ambulance Club, said, “Our members are dedicated to the safety of our community, and this agreement ensures we can continue delivering prompt, professional care while strengthening our operational capabilities.”
“This move is about long-term sustainability and excellence in emergency services,” said Oley Griffith, Volunteer Coordinator. “We’re proud to partner with the County to ensure that residents of Clear Spring and surrounding areas have dependable EMS coverage now and into the future.”
“The collaboration between Clear Spring and Washington County highlights the importance of strong partnerships in emergency services,” said James L. Sprecher Jr., President of the Washington County Volunteer Fire & Rescue Association. “This transition will strengthen EMS staffing and help ensure consistent, high-quality care for all residents.”
This transition aligns with Washington County’s ongoing efforts to standardize and support EMS staffing across the region, strengthening emergency response through consistent training, equitable employment practices, and operational continuity. The fiscal impact of this transition is $400,000, which is included in the FY26 Operating Budget.
For additional information, please contact Washington County’s Public Relations & Marketing Department at [email protected].
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