Volunteer Bristol Life Saving Crew warns it may close within 90 days without funding

Curtis Meek, representing the Bristol Life Saving Crew, told the City Council during the May 27 meeting that the volunteer rescue squad is facing a serious funding shortfall and may be unable to continue operations within about 90 days without new support.

Meek identified himself and summarized the service history and finances of the rescue squad. He said revenue sources include Medicare billing, an annual letter drive (about $24,000), occasional private donations and other one-time gifts; he said the squad has been drawing on investments and reserves in recent years and has run recurring shortfalls. Meek said the squad recorded a $137,000 shortfall in February 2024 and that volunteerism and other changes have reduced the organization’s financial resilience.

Meek told council the squad currently has 33 personnel (a mix of career and volunteer) but that the organization’s funding—not staffing—is the critical constraint. He warned the squad has “done everything to try to stop this,” that they have downsized and cut services, and that they expect to survive “for another 90 days” only if additional support is found.

Meek said the squad’s board asked him to request that council form an EMS committee with city representation to meet, evaluate options and report recommendations back to council at the next meeting. Mayor Nave responded that he would follow up with Meek to discuss the request.

The presentation by Meek was a public comment; council did not take formal action during the meeting beyond the mayor’s commitment to follow up. Council members later referenced emergency medical services and public-safety funding during budget debate, but no formal vote on the rescu e squad’s request occurred at the meeting.