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Penicook Rescue calls surge; towns press Merrimack County for cost-sharing, county offers $50,000 one-time payment
Summary
Penicook Rescue told Canterbury officials its call volume has grown substantially since 2018 and that a one-time $50,000 payment from Merrimack County was secured for this year; town leaders discussed funding, future formula options and staffing needs for 24/7 coverage.
Penicook Rescue representatives told the Select Board and Budget Committee that call volume from Canterbury and neighboring towns has risen sharply since 2018, and that a one-time $50,000 payment from Merrimack County will offset some operating pressure for 2024.
Chief Sean Brechtel and rescue staff described year-to-year response growth: "In 2018 we were doing 392 calls; 2019 went to 438; 2020 473; 2021 490; 2022 504; 2023 483; and this year we've exceeded 800," one representative said. The committee heard the organization is asking the three…
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