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Hubbardston officials flag rising dispatch costs as they consider Central Mass regional switch
Summary
Officials described a roughly 34% increase in dispatch costs from FY24 to FY25 and outlined a transition to a new Central Mass regional dispatch structure; the town faces an approximately $157,063 annual assessment and discussed contractual exit terms, state assistance and possible provider alternatives.
Select board members and finance committee representatives reviewed the town’s options for emergency dispatch services during the June 1 meeting, raising concerns about recent cost increases and the timing of a regional transition.
Participants said Central Mass Regional Emergency Communication Center plans to separate from Rutland and formally begin operating July 1; the regional group hopes to include up to 11 towns over two years to lower per‑town assessments. Officials noted the town’s current annual assessment for dispatch services is about $157,063 and that the town absorbed a roughly 34 percent increase in that line from FY24 to FY25, a figure raised during the meeting as a point of concern.
Board members discussed state 911 support and described it as helpful but uncertain until funding is received; because the state budget is not finalized until mid‑July, speakers said the town has moved a potential shortfall into a reserve fund transfer to ensure the bill can be paid if state assistance does not arrive. One member said the town is not contractually obligated to stay with the current provider beyond the contract term but noted there are buy‑out and liquidated‑damages provisions that could apply for early withdrawal.
Officials said they have been in regular contact with the police and fire chiefs and with state 911 staff about potential assistance and operational fit. They also signaled a willingness to 'shop' the service if the town determines Central Mass cannot provide acceptable value or service levels, but cautioned that switching providers could be costly and might require state assistance to mitigate financial impact.
No formal vote to change providers was taken; the board recorded the discussion and planned further review and follow up with chiefs and the treasurer as budget decisions proceed.
