Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Public Safety topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Fire chief warns paramedic service will drop to advanced level; board supports per‑diem coverage
Summary
The Fire Chief told the Selectboard the department expects to lower its service level from paramedic to advanced life support at the end of August because of DEA regulatory constraints and a shortage of resident paramedics; the board voiced support for securing per‑diem coverage on peak summer days and asked staff to pursue state clarification and grant funding.
The Chebeague Island Fire Chief told the Selectboard on June 17 that the department expects to reduce its EMS service level from paramedic to advanced life support at the end of August, citing DEA regulatory issues and a shortage of resident paramedics. The chief said the department will seek written clarification from the State about what paramedics may do while working on Chebeague Island after the change.
Board members discussed plans to secure per‑diem EMS coverage for Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays during the summer; several candidates have expressed interest, and the board expressed support for obtaining as much per‑diem coverage as reasonably possible to reduce the burden on volunteers. The board also discussed transportation and parking logistics at Cousins Island and the possibility of reserving parking charges to support staffing needs.
Selectboard members noted budget implications if per‑diem coverage exceeds the amount originally budgeted and discussed potential use of EMS grant funding. The board further discussed allowing town employees who are trained emergency responders to answer emergency calls during work hours, with details on pay and timekeeping to be determined by staff.
The minutes record that the department is pursuing state clarification and that regular updates on EMS staffing and per‑diem coverage will be placed on future agendas.
