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Council approves first reading for $89,133 ambulance‑fund radio upgrade; chief reports new hires
Summary
The council approved first reading of an appropriation from the Ambulance Special Revenue Fund to buy 800 MHz radios and heard a staffing update from Fire Chief Hamill, who said two hires start next week and two more are planned for January.
The Saco City Council on July 14 approved first reading of an appropriation of $89,132.69 from the Ambulance Special Revenue Fund to purchase radios that will upgrade the fire department from VHF to 800 MHz, a step the city says is necessary for interoperability with neighboring emergency services. The motion passed on a 7‑0 roll call; the final reading was scheduled for Aug. 4, 2025.
Councillor Edwards moved the appropriation and said the purchase would comply with Saco City Code section 60‑5 (ambulance fund). The memo attached to the council packet, dated June 24, 2025, was prepared by Chief Hamill and detailed specifications and cost estimates.
Chief Hamill told the council the radio upgrade began in fiscal 2024, with batches of portable radios purchased in each of the last two years. He said the department used ambulance revenue to continue the upgrade after a budget request did not pass for fiscal 2026 and that grant funding will be sought to continue the program.
Hamill also updated the council on staffing. He said two employees start the Monday after the meeting to replace recent retirees and two additional hires start Jan. 1, 2026, work that was included in the fiscal 2026 budget. “We staffed to a minimum of 8, but we allowed 2 out for vacations,” Hamill said, explaining how shift coverage has been managed.
Councillor Johnston asked whether vendors had been competitively bid or purchased as sole source; the chief said the program of replacing portables began earlier and that staff could provide procurement details later.
Why it matters: Converting to 800 MHz radios aligns Saco’s emergency communications with mutual‑aid partners, which can improve incident coordination. Staffing updates affect minimum response capacity and public perceptions of readiness.
What comes next: Final council reading on Aug. 4 and follow‑up briefing requested on procurement and ongoing staffing levels.
Ending: Councilors expressed support and asked for periodic updates on both the radio rollout and staffing.
