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Select Board debates funding and contract terms for paramedic certification request
Summary
The EMS team reported a member enrolled in a year-long paramedic program (first-semester invoice cited at $2,354) and said the department is pursuing grants; board members acknowledged the operational need but expressed concern about setting a precedent and asked for a formal contract tying training support to service obligations before approving funding.
An EMS representative asked the Select Board for help funding paramedic certification for a provider who has signed up for a year‑long course. The representative said the first-semester invoice was $2,354 and that the department has applied for two separate $5,000 grants and a $1,200 workforce grant as potential funding sources.
Board members emphasized the need for a written agreement that would require the trainee to provide a set number of shifts or reimburse the town should they not complete service obligations. One member noted the town already pays for firefighter academy training in some circumstances but has not previously funded ambulance paramedic certification and warned about creating a future precedent.
The board directed the EMS leadership to return with a formal proposal outlining the training cost, proposed contract language tying training to service obligations (including reimbursement terms), and potential funding sources so the board can consider a budget amendment or reserve use if appropriate.
