Fair Haven manager says Rescue Squad will seek $71 per‑capita support as calls top 100 a month

Sean Gelden, the town manager, told the Selectboard the Fairhaven Rescue Squad is proposing a per‑capita increase to $71 to help cover operating costs. "They are looking to bring the per capita rate to $71," Gelden said, and added that the squad now runs "just over an average of a 100 calls a month." Gelden told members the service typically staffs at least two people on duty 24/7 and that insurance billing recovers roughly 65% of billed charges, leaving a funding gap borne by the town and subscriptions.

Board members asked how that cost is distributed regionally and whether mutual‑aid and subscription revenues can be increased. Gelden said the squad serves Hubbardton, Westhaven, Benson, and Fairhaven and that towns served pay per‑capita contributions. He said the annual subscription program historically draws about 10% of residents and that subscription revenue helps but is not sufficient. He also described vehicle replacement practice: the most recent ambulance cost about $160,000 while larger units can run about $250,000, and the squad aims to replace an ambulance on a roughly three‑year cycle to avoid very old apparatus.

Selectboard members pressed for a clearer breakdown of calls and revenues specific to Fairhaven; Gelden offered to provide a town‑specific call and billing report at a future meeting. The board did not take a formal funding vote at this session; Gelden said he would follow up with the requested figures.