Fire chief urges regional cooperation; raises radio and staffing concerns

Casco’s fire chief briefed the Select Board on July 7 about staffing pressures, damaged radio equipment and plans for regional collaboration aimed at improving emergency coverage.

Chief Cole (speaker identified in the meeting) told the board crews have experienced equipment damage from lightning and that replacement radio gear has been ordered. He also said the town submitted a regional grant request through a congressional office for roughly $2.5 million to address broader radio and communications needs across several towns.

“Because of the roots… If someone called 911 from the beach, they weren't getting 911,” the chief said, underscoring the urgency of better radio coverage and more resilient communications. He discussed options including a simulcast radio system with multiple tower sites and potential public–private partnerships with cell carriers to improve coverage.

The chief also reviewed other operational work: a feasibility study with an architecture firm to assess facility renovations and separation of contaminated vs. noncontaminated living quarters, staffing recruitment and an upcoming regional paramedic candidate interview process tied to a multi-town program. Members discussed regionalization as a long-term staffing strategy and asked staff how the Select Board could help.

Board members pledged support for regional conversations and encouraged continued coordination with neighboring communities; staff will bring updates on grant results, device replacement and any budget impacts to future meetings.