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WEMS requests larger town subsidy; board and committee explore merger with town operations
Summary
WEMS presented an operating budget request of $887,496 and described rising payroll, medical-supply and facility costs. The committee approved the appropriation and heard that an exploratory committee is studying a possible merger of WEMS into municipal operations.
Wells Emergency Medical Services (WEMS) asked the Budget Review Committee for $887,496 to support operations next year, citing higher payroll costs, increased medical-supply use and lease costs for station space.
Why it matters: WEMS is the townambulance provider and its finances directly affect emergency medical coverage and town budgets. Committee members approved the requested appropriation and discussed a longer-term option to merge WEMS into municipal operations.
WEMS briefing Steve, WEMS director, told committee members that most of WEMS revenue comes from Medicare and private insurance reimbursements and that reimbursement rates often lag the actual cost of a run. He said that the agency operates two 24-hour ambulances, relies heavily on Medicare/Medicaid calls (about two-thirds of volume) and recently changed subscription pricing. Medical-supply spending has exceeded prior projections this year.
Board perspective and next steps Brian, president of the WEMS board of directors, said the service is a nonprofit that primarily serves the town and that the board previously covered some one-time costs with a grant. Board and staff described plans to add full-time positions to stabilize scheduling.
Exploratory committee: The select board has authorized an exploratory committee to study integrating WEMS into town operations under the fire department. The committee includes select board members, WEMS board members, fire leadership and town staff. The panel will examine facilities, personnel, legal and finance issues and aim to report recommendations to the select board in the fall.
Vote The Budget Review Committee approved WEMSoperating request ($887,496) as presented. Members also approved adding $175,000 to an ambulance replacement reserve in CIP planning so the agency can fund a future ambulance purchase or a down payment for a lease.
Follow-up The exploratory committee will report back with recommendations on integration, financing and staffing. WEMS staff will also provide more detailed monthly run statistics and clearer projections of medical-supply and staffing needs.
