The Fire Chief began with an overview of the ambulance service’s performance, citing a substantial increase in calls for service over the past three years, approximately 14 to 15%. He continued to outline the breakdown of ambulance dispositions and collection rates, comparing Southwick’s rates with those of neighboring communities. A detailed proposal was then laid out for rate increases across Basic Life Support (BLS), Advanced Life Support level one (ALS1), and Advanced Life Support level two (ALS2) transports, suggesting increments of 25%, 15%, 10%, and 5% respectively.

Deputy Chief Bishop underscored the necessity for fee adjustments in light of the variable costs associated with providing ambulance services, such as fuel and medical supplies, which have notably increased post-COVID. The effort to track these expenses, including fuel consumption and the expiration of medical supplies, was emphasized as a componet in determining the cost of running the ambulance.

Following the presentation, the Select Board deliberated on the appropriate billing rates for the ambulance services. Comparisons with rates from Agawam and Westfield were drawn, and the discussion led to a proposal that would set the BLS rate at $1,200, ALS1 at $2,000, ALS2 at $3,000, and establish a mileage rate of $37 and an ALS intercept fee of $300, effective June 1, 2022. There was also debate over the need for annual reviews of the rates and the potential impact of the proposed changes on the community.

In addition to the ambulance rate discussion, the board addressed the topic of early voting for local elections. There were mixed opinions about its continuance, with one member expressing a preference to eliminate it due to other available voting options, such as mail-in and absentee voting. The board was cognizant of the low turnout for early voting during primaries and the strain it places on staff. The possibility of revoking early voting was discussed, and the board agreed to gather more information on its costs and impact before making a final decision.

The meeting also included the designation of April as Donate Life month, in recognition of the importance of organ and tissue donation. The upcoming Memorial Day Parade was acknowledged, as was a resignation from the board of assessors. Among the approvals were a cash donation to the library, a letter for a community development program, a donation for an emergency management information class, and the reappointment of a board member.

The board approved the Department of Public Works’ authorization to submit a grant application for a culvert replacement project. Additionally, authorization was given for the chair to send a letter in support of a fire department grant. The process of filling a COA director position was discussed, noting the receipt of only one application, prompting consideration of reaching out to the COA chair for further discussion.

The meeting also touched on updates regarding a marijuana dispensary, the scheduling of public meetings for a hunting bylaw proposal, and the review of a land license for the American Legion. The town’s administrative recruitment process was updated, with interim appointments made and interviews for the town clerk position scheduled. Finally, there was discussion over the composition of the Master Plan Implementation Committee and a brief mention of the need for an executive session to discuss matters related to labor, litigation, and collective bargaining.