Fire Chief Tim Johnson outlined the Fire Department’s budgetary concerns, highlighting the strain on resources due to the hospital’s closure. This situation has led to a notable rise in overtime expenditures, as hiring additional staff is not an immediate option. The Chief emphasized the importance of maintaining personnel coverage despite these challenges, with the department having to frequently call back off-duty members to meet demand. Public safety and response capabilities are at the forefront of these discussions, as the department works to navigate these financial hurdles.

A point of concern is the expiration of the SAFER Grant in fiscal year 2026, which has previously funded firefighter positions. With the grant’s conclusion, the town will need to absorb these costs, adding further pressure to the department’s budget. Negotiations with the firefighters’ local union are scheduled, as the current collective bargaining agreement, typically lasting three years, will require renewal and funding through town meeting approval.

The department is also contending with a decrease in call firefighter membership, although there is potential relief with six new applications. Call firefighters, who are part-time and not covered by the union agreement, have seen a recent wage increase of $1 per hour. The budget will need to address whether to maintain this wage structure or adjust it, with estimated annual costs for these changes ranging from $6,000 to $8,000. The Fire Chief underscored the need for continuous updates on operational demands and financial obligations as the budget process unfolds.

The committee discussed the ambulance revolving fund and its impact on revenue generation. The town’s ambulances have been heavily utilized, leading to a reliance on mutual aid and complicating revenue tracking. The committee is considering capital expenditure of $250,000 for a new vehicle equipped with paramedic tools. This investment aims to enhance flexibility and response efficiency without further increasing labor costs.

The discussion touched on the town’s procurement timeline for emergency vehicles, with delays extending delivery times to three years due to labor and supply chain issues. A new ladder truck is anticipated in April 2026.

Attendees expressed a desire for meeting documents to be readily accessible to enhance understanding of the committee’s proceedings. The finance manager’s absence led to a postponement of detailed financial discussions, which will resume at the next meeting scheduled for November 21st, coinciding with a report from the DPW department head.