HAGERSTOWN, MD (June 3, 2025) – The Washington County Division of Emergency Services (DES) is pleased to announce the approval of the employee transition Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Volunteer Fire Company of Halfway. This agreement, officially endorsed by the Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) today, June 3, 2025, marks the fourth EMS staffing transition into County employment since March 2024.
The Volunteer Fire Company of Halfway, one of the busiest fire and EMS agencies outside of Hagerstown, responded to over 3,900 calls for service in 2024. 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’re encouraged by the collaboration and forward-thinking shown by the leadership and membership at Halfway,” said R. David Hays, Director of Washington County Division of Emergency Services. “Their willingness to move into this agreement with optimism and professionalism speaks volumes about their dedication to public safety.”
Board of County Commissioners President John Barr added, “We appreciate the trust and confidence the Volunteer Fire Company of Halfway has placed in Washington County. These transitions reflect our joint vision to deliver high-quality EMS care for all citizens. We are proud to support Halfway in this new chapter and are confident in their continued service to the community.”
“This transition represents a significant step forward for our department and the community we serve,” said Jamie Drawbaugh, Fire Chief of the Volunteer Fire Company of Halfway. “By working in partnership with Washington County, we’re strengthening our EMS operations and ensuring long-term sustainability for our personnel and the services we provide. We’re proud to move ahead with a unified vision and a shared commitment to public safety.”
“The decision to transition our EMS personnel into County employment reflects our unwavering commitment to providing the highest level of emergency medical services to our community,” said Justin Gearhart, President of the Volunteer Fire Company of Halfway. “We believe this partnership with Washington County will enhance our operational capabilities and ensure that our residents continue to receive prompt and professional care when they need it most.”
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.
For additional information, please contact Washington County’s Public Relations & Marketing Department at [email protected].
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