Saving emergency services at Port Colborne General has a price tag of $7,800 for Wainfleet residents.

Port Colborne council recently approved the hiring of a consultant to help prepare a response to the Niagara Health System's hospital restructuring plan. The consultant will cost $32,000, but that number could stretch to $53,000 for a more in-depth report.

The plan, released July 17, proposes the removal of the emergency department at Port Colborne's hospital. The emergency room would be replaced with 14-hour prompt care before being eliminated as the hospital evolves into a comprehensive primary care centre.

Shortly after the announcement, Port Colborne and Wainfleet councils joined forces to prepare a response. The committee voted in favour of hiring a health care consultant to carry out to response.

Since the closure of the emergency department would affect both communities, Port Colborne has asked Wainfleet to chip in $7,800 for the consultant.

Council approved the expenditure at Tuesday's council meeting.