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Preston considers restoring second-shift trooper and adding 1.5 firefighter/EMS positions
Summary
Officials proposed restoring a second-shift Resident State Trooper at about $128,000 and adding 1.5 firefighter/EMS positions (net ~$86,000 using ARPA/EMS funds) to close staffing gaps and meet safety standards amid declining volunteerism and rising seasonal calls.
Preston officials outlined public-safety staffing proposals during the Board of Finance special meeting on March 25.
First Selectwoman Sandra Allyn-Gauthier said the draft budget includes funding to restore a second-shift Resident State Trooper at an estimated $128,000 annually to increase police visibility during spring and summer traffic surges, support pistol-permit reviews, oversee the town camera system and help with Riverwalk planning. Officials cautioned the position is not guaranteed because the state previously eliminated it and recruiting remains a statewide challenge.
Fire Chief Keith Wucik told the board the Fire and EMS department needs roughly 35,000 staffed hours a year but current funding supports slightly more than 25,000 hours, leaving an approximate gap of 9,700 hours. The budget proposes adding 1.5 full-time firefighter/EMS positions at a net additional cost of about $86,000 using American Rescue Plan Act and EMS funds. Chief Wucik said the hires are aimed at complying with OSHA and NFPA two-in/two-out requirements and addressing reduced volunteer participation.
Resident State Trooper Kris Fisher said seasonal activity and local destinations such as Strawberry Park have produced a substantial number of calls for service and predicted future I‑95 reconstruction will shift additional traffic through Preston. Fisher estimated that without restoring a second trooper the town might spend $50,000–$75,000 in overtime to achieve even partial supplemental police coverage.
Board members asked whether regionalization or automated enforcement could reduce staffing pressure. Trooper Fisher said automated speed or camera programs would require significant administration, outside contractual support and likely state approval. Chief Wucik said neighboring towns face similar volunteer shortages and that mutual aid covers emergencies rather than routine staffing needs.
No formal personnel hires were approved at the meeting; board members discussed phasing or postponing additions if Riverwalk conveyance is delayed or if funding priorities change. The meeting adjourned at 8:46 p.m.
