The Independence City Commission approves a Memo of Understanding with Labette Health regarding patient transfers.

At Thursday's meeting, Independence Fire & EMS Chief Aaron Cook presented the request from Labette Health to commissioners. Cook says the agreement would allow Labette to handle patient transfers while leaving Independence crews available for local emergencies.

Labette Health asked Independence to join a regional ambulance service for long-distance transfers between medical facilities. Cook says this will help when local ambulances are busy.

Independence Mayor Dean Hayse says these types of agreements are common.

Commissioners approved the agreement on a unanimous vote.

In other business, Independence Police Chief Dustin Stafford updated the commission on upcoming street closures and safety measures for Neewollah.