Wolfeboro moves toward fire‑department 911 ambulance service with phased funding plan

The Wolfeboro Board of Selectmen recommended warrant articles on Jan. 15 that would begin a phased transition to a fire department–based 911 ambulance service, asking voters to raise $816,223 for 2025 start‑up costs and to consider follow‑on funding in 2026 that would enable full operation of two ambulances by Jan. 1, 2027.

The selectmen and an ad hoc committee told residents the change is proposed in response to shrinking private 911 ambulance capacity across New Hampshire and rising contract costs. "More than 70% of New Hampshire communities either have or contract with neighboring towns to supply fire department based 911 ambulance services," Selectman Brian Deshaies said, citing recent private providers that have stopped 911 service in the state.

The ad hoc committee that studied options recommended a phased plan. "The program…