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Hampstead board reviews May fire/EMS call data and discusses SAFER grant to add full-time staff
Summary
Selectman Worthen presented May 2026 fire and EMS statistics and the board discussed Chief Kramlinger's plan to apply for a new SAFER grant that would fund additional full‑time staff with shifting cost shares; the board discussed recruitment challenges for per‑diem personnel and budget options if grant funding declines.
Selectman Maurie Worthen reviewed May 2026 fire and emergency medical services statistics and the Selectboard discussed staffing and grant options at the June 8 meeting.
Worthen reported figures from Chief Kramlinger’s May report: 4 fire calls, 89 EMS calls (24 in Sandown, 27 percent), 16 hazardous calls, 19 public assists and a total of 142 calls in May; 63 percent of calls were EMS-related and the chief reported $38,000 in ambulance revenue for May.
Worthen and Town Administrator Michael Carrier outlined staffing challenges: the pool of per-diem firefighters and paramedics is shrinking, recruitment yielded 10 applicants (seven invited for interviews, two withdrew, one stood out and others were no-shows). The board discussed options to sustain staffing if a new SAFER grant sunsets, including placing funding on the warrant or modifying the budget (for example, adjusting the Ambulance Revenue account to cover staffing costs). Carrier noted pay comparisons to neighboring towns and explained overtime rules for paramedics and firefighters under local policies.
Chief Kramlinger is looking to apply for a new SAFER grant that carries a shifting cost share over its term: the first and second years would be approximately 74% federal / 25% local, with the third year shifting to about 35% federal / 65% local. If awarded, the grant could fund up to four additional full-time positions; the board discussed the need for a strategic plan with the chief to address recruitment and long-term staffing sustainability.
No formal vote was taken; the board discussed options and next steps for planning and possible warrant placement in future budget cycles.
