Roswell City Council approves new ambulance service and fire department pay increase

The City Council of Roswell, NM, made significant strides towards enhancing local emergency services during their recent meeting on July 10, 2025. The council approved the establishment of a city-operated ambulance service, a move expected to improve response times and service reliability for residents. Chief of Emergency Services indicated that discussions with the current ambulance provider, AMR, suggest that many of their staff are interested in transitioning to the city’s service, attracted by better benefits.

Concerns regarding potential liabilities associated with the new service were addressed. The city attorney reassured council members that the current liability framework under the Torrance Claims Act would likely mitigate risks, as the city would be subject to a capped liability compared to private providers. This transition is anticipated to be cost-effective, with additional insurance costs expected to be manageable.

In addition to emergency services, the meeting highlighted ongoing preparations for the upcoming national championship races. Mr. Tallings expressed gratitude for the community's support and collaboration, while also noting delays in receiving final approvals from the FAA and TSA, which are crucial for event logistics. Despite these challenges, he remains optimistic about the event's success and the community's engagement.

The council also approved a collective bargaining agreement for the fire department, which includes salary increases and additional benefits, reflecting the city’s commitment to supporting its emergency personnel.

Overall, the decisions made during this meeting are set to enhance public safety and community engagement in Roswell, paving the way for improved emergency response capabilities and successful upcoming events.