County's EMS Manager and Medical Director resign

Linda Diaz, Merced County’s Emergency Medical Services Manager, has resigned from her position, county officials said on Friday.

The decision was voluntary, and Diaz is set to work through the end of next week.

Along with Diaz, the county’s EMS Medical Director, Dr. Jim Andrews, has also resigned. His resignation is effective March 1, but Andrews has offered his services to the county beyond that date until a replacement is found.

Andrews’ position is considered a contract position, officials said.

Although Andrews declined comment, his resignation letter states that he feels it's in the best interest of Merced County to resign "after the recent no confidence vote by the Board of Supervisors" related to the Jan. 29 decision to reopen the county's ambulance bid.

Calls made to Diaz were not returned immediately on Friday.

More details coming in tomorrow's edition of Merced Sun-Star.

-- Ramona Giwargis