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Great Barington approves near-term funding to finalize ambulance contract with Southern Berkshire Ambulance Squad
Summary
Voters approved a transfer of funds to support a three‑year contract with Southern Berkshire Ambulance Squad; town and SBAS reported an oversight committee will monitor runs and expenditures, and the contract will be signed after the vote. The transcript shows the requested amount in the motion as '86,8.99' (transcription unclear).
Voters on June 12 approved an appropriation to provide funding to Southern Berkshire Ambulance Squad (SBAS) for ambulance services in fiscal year 2027 and to enable execution of a three‑year contract. Peter Mo moved the amendment text and Kevin Wall, chief of SBAS (a nonvoter permitted to speak), described the $86,8.99 figure in the motion as the remainder of funds requested last November; the transcript presents the numeric amount in the motion as transcribed and garbled.
Officials said the contract will set a defined price for three years and establish an oversight committee composed of the town manager, a select board member, the fire chief and two ambulance representatives to meet regularly and review runs, expenditures and service levels. That oversight arrangement was presented as a condition that will strengthen accountability should the town provide ongoing operational support.
Residents asked whether the town would provide capital funds for new ambulances or whether operating shortfalls would recur; SBAS said capital requests were tabled at the prior town meeting and the present vote is for operating support in FY2027 tied to a structured contract. The appropriation was approved by voice vote and the contract was described as ready for signature once the voted amount is finalized.
