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Resident tells committee he opposes ambulance privatization, cites personal experience
Summary
Dean Atkinson of Cedar Knolls urged the Hanover Township Committee to reject ambulance privatization during public comment on June 13, 2024, citing a personal incident in which township ambulance personnel provided comforting, familiar service.
Dean Atkinson, a resident of Cedar Knolls, told the Hanover Township Committee on June 13 that he opposes privatizing ambulance services.
"I am not for privatization. I think it's a bad idea," Atkinson said, describing a minor crash in which township ambulance personnel checked on his family and provided reassurance to his toddler grandson.
Atkinson said his experience showed the value of locally run emergency services, not only for medical response but for the personal familiarity that made his grandson feel comfortable. He said private providers would not provide that same service.
A committee member responded that discussions with the fire district are ongoing and that Brian Cahill will share any formal decisions; the committee did not take policy action at the meeting.
