(KNZA)--Doniphan County Ambulance District #1 is seeking a $75,000 increase in funding from the county for 2021.

EMS Director Matthew McKittrick and Assistant Director Tanner Veach met with the Doniphan County Commission Monday to discuss their funding request.

Commissioners were told the funding increase is needed to hire an additional full-time EMT/paramedic certified staff member due to the loss of volunteer EMT's and paramedics.

It's addition, the Commission was told the funding increase will help offset the increased cost of medical supplies, general liability insurance, employee benefits and insurance write-off amounts for user fees.

McKittrick said the Ambulance District, which is based in Troy, has not had an increase in funding since 2015.

The Ambulance District covers the central and eastern portions of Doniphan County.

The Commission took the funding request under consideration.