San Diego to Seek EMS Bids in 2026
The city plans to issue a request for proposals for its ambulance services amid concerns over potential conflict of interest.
Updated on Oct. 20, 2026 in People
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San Diego will solicit competitive bids for its Emergency Medical Services system during the 2026 calendar year. The city is currently restructuring its ambulance operations to improve overall service quality.
Why it matters
The upcoming contract process raises questions regarding potential financial conflicts of interest involving former officials. California Government Code Section 1090 strictly prohibits public servants from holding financial interests in contracts they oversaw in their official capacity.
The city utilized a 135-page EMS feasibility and optimization study completed in June 2024 to guide its current procurement strategy. The city has yet to clarify its official stance on potential ethics violations.
The players
Colin Stowell
He is the former San Diego Fire Chief who retired in August 2024 before becoming a consultant and director for American Medical Response.
American Medical Response
This private company is a major provider of ambulance services and a potential bidder for the city of San Diego contract.
AP Triton
This consulting firm was hired by the city to perform a feasibility study and assist with the ambulance services procurement process.
The details
San Diego is working to reorganize its ambulance service, utilizing consultants from AP Triton to finalize the necessary request for proposals. Concerns remain regarding the employment of former Fire Chief Colin Stowell, who joined American Medical Response after his August 2024 retirement.
Timeline
June 2024: AP Triton completed an EMS feasibility study.
August 2024: Colin Stowell retired from the city.
September 2024: AP Triton agreed to finalize the city's bid.
2026 calendar year: The city plans to issue its request for proposals.
Market Landscape
The situation highlights the complex landscape of public-to-private consulting pipelines in the emergency services sector. This case tests adherence to California Government Code Section 1090 by evaluating whether a former official's move to a private firm creates a prohibited conflict.
The city's procurement process directly impacts the future delivery and potential cost of ambulance services for local residents. Taxpayers and public officials are currently debating whether the pending bid process adheres to state ethics requirements.
The takeaway
Maintaining transparency during municipal procurement is essential to ensuring public trust in critical safety services. Residents should monitor upcoming city council meetings for updates on the request for proposals process.
Further reading
For more information on municipal leadership and local government appointments, visit the San Diego People section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Times of San Diego.
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