Select Board considers redirecting ambulance revenue into larger fire equipment reserve; staff to confirm DRA rules

The Select Board reviewed a proposal to change the ambulance revolving fund’s intent and cap so revenues from ambulance services could be used as a capital vehicle‑replacement reserve large enough to fund heavy equipment, including fire trucks. Staff explained the proposal would allow the town to build a locally funded capital reserve rather than bonding for expensive apparatus, and the chief noted looming replacement needs (engine replacement cycles and an estimated $3 million in trucks over the next five years).

Board members raised concerns about transparency and the mechanics of reallocating revenues: one member asked whether the town could set an open cap and staff said they would check with the Department of Revenue Administration (DRA) about wording and limits under RSA 31.95. Staff referenced example DRA language that allows a revolving fund to receive “all or any part of the revenues” from related services and said they would follow up with DRA to confirm whether an ‘‘up to $500,000’’ cap is permissible and how appropriations would be administered.

Why it matters: The discussion has direct budgetary implications. If adopted, the warrant article could change how revenues collected by ambulance services are reserved and used, potentially reducing future borrowing but also reallocating revenue that currently offsets operating budgets. Board members and staff agreed more legal and financial detail is needed before placing specific language on the warrant.

Next steps: Staff will confirm statutory and DRA constraints and provide specific warrant language and revenue projections for formal board action. No binding change will occur until voters act on a warrant article at town meeting.