Milford debates ambulance service contract amid safety concerns

During a recent government meeting, officials discussed the potential implications of a proposed one-year ambulance service contract with the town of Mount Vernon. Concerns were raised about the impact on Milford residents, particularly regarding response times and service availability. One official expressed hesitation about risking service levels for what they deemed a minimal financial gain, noting that the increase in calls would be marginal—from approximately 5.3 to 6 calls per day.

The dialogue centered on whether to continue discussions with Mount Vernon, with some members advocating for a cautious approach. They emphasized the importance of prioritizing Milford residents in emergency services, suggesting that any agreement should not compromise local coverage. The fire department's role in providing backup when the ambulance service is unavailable was also highlighted, indicating that increased calls from Mount Vernon could strain local resources.

Financial aspects of the contract were debated, with officials clarifying that while Milford would bill Mount Vernon for services rendered, mutual aid from neighboring towns would not incur additional costs for Milford. The potential for longer response times was a significant concern, particularly in emergencies where every second counts.

The board ultimately agreed to continue discussions with Mount Vernon, with the understanding that no binding decisions would be made until further information and clarity on the contract terms were obtained. The meeting concluded with a report on the Milford master plan and updates on the town's impact fee study, which aims to review and potentially revise fees charged to developers for local services. The next committee meeting is scheduled for June 25, focusing on natural resources and hazards.