CLARK, S.D.(KXLG)- Unresolved staffing and pay issues between Clark County Ambulance and the Clark County Commissioners came to a head at Thursday’s commission meeting, and the commissioners have decided to temporarily contract with Watertown Fire and Rescue to provide ambulance service to county residents.

The move sparked plenty of negative comments on social media, but Commission Chairman Wally Knock told KXLG News the move was just temporary while issues could be addressed.

Clark, a city of about 1,140 people, is 31 miles west of Watertown on U.S. Highway 212. Clark County has about 3,855 residents, according to the most recent Census figures. Knock said he’s confident Watertown will provide excellent service until issues can be resolved at Clark County Ambulance.

Knock also said Clark County Ambulance had not been shut down; employees are still on the payroll and just temporarily not taking calls.

The Clark County Commission will meet again on Monday, November 13, at 8 a.m. to revisit the ambulance issue.