In a recent government meeting, community members voiced their opinions on the future of local ambulance services, highlighting the need for a more robust emergency response system. The discussions centered around the potential transition from a volunteer-based service to a full-time ambulance service, with participants weighing the financial implications and service quality.

One resident, a volunteer EMT, argued for the necessity of a full-time service, citing the growing population and comparing it to neighboring communities like Rothschild and Schofield, which maintain their own ambulance services. He emphasized that relying on external services could lead to inefficiencies and higher costs in the long run.

Another participant raised concerns about a proposal that would reduce staffed hours and eliminate paramedic services, questioning the rationale behind supporting such a plan when the community currently benefits from a cost-effective arrangement. The resident noted that the village pays approximately $65,000 annually for ambulance services, a fraction of what it could cost if the service were to be fully managed in-house.

The conversation also touched on broader community planning issues, with one speaker questioning the village's commitment to industrial and commercial growth. He suggested that the demand for ambulance services is closely tied to the community's development trajectory, indicating that a primarily residential focus may not necessitate a significant increase in emergency services.

As the meeting progressed, participants acknowledged the efforts of local officials and staff in exploring various options for ambulance service delivery. The discussions underscored the importance of community engagement in shaping future emergency response strategies, with many attendees expressing gratitude for the opportunity to share their views.

The meeting concluded with a call for further deliberation on the matter, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive understanding of the community's long-term needs and the potential impacts of any changes to the ambulance service structure.