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An ECHO vehicle does not transport people, but carries all of the medical equipment to the scene. It is usually on the scene ahead of other EMS vehicles because it is located on the site of the medical technician on duty, EMS director John Lamont said.

"We exceed state and national averages of eight minutes and get there (on scene) in under seven minutes," Lamont said. The rural response time average is 12 minutes.

The current ECHO vehicle has undergone substantial repairs. Lamont said the department responds to more than 800 emergency requests annually.

The city is purchasing the Ford Expedition vehicle from Bob Mathers Ford. It will arrive in 8-12 weeks, Lamont said.