Community debates future of local ambulance service

During a recent government meeting, significant discussions centered around the proposal for a new ambulance service by the Kronowetter Fire Department. Community member Guy Firdell raised concerns regarding the necessity and financial implications of establishing an independent ambulance service, questioning whether the current service provided by Riverside meets the village's needs effectively and at a reasonable cost.

Firdell emphasized the importance of a thorough evaluation of the fire department's proposal, which suggests a projected annual cost of $87,000 for the new service. He compared this figure to the existing contract with Riverside, which has been budgeted at approximately $72,000 for 2024. According to Firdell's calculations, the proposed service could potentially result in an additional annual expense of $3,000 to $4,000 for the village, contradicting the fire department's claim of a $9,000 savings.

The discussion highlighted the need for a committee to assess the proposal independently, ensuring that all aspects, including the quality of care and financial viability, are adequately addressed. Firdell noted that while the fire department's efforts are appreciated, it is crucial to scrutinize the numbers and the quality of service that would be provided compared to Riverside's current offerings.

As the meeting concluded, it was clear that the decision regarding the ambulance service would require further deliberation, with community members advocating for a careful examination of both the financial and service quality implications before moving forward.