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Wadsworth Fire/EMS reports rising calls and warns staffing may require future levies
Summary
Fire Chief Bob Lindner and Safety Director Dan Chafin told the committee EMS calls and total CFS rose in 2025–26, with a demographic shift (69% of EMS patients over 60) likely to sustain demand; the department flagged inspection declines and the possibility of future levy discussions.
Fire Chief Bob Lindner presented the Fire & EMS monthly data and the department’s 10‑year trends on March 11. He reported 27 total runs in February (22 city; 5 township) and said total Fire & EMS Calls For Service in February were 656 — a 7% increase over 2025 — while EMS alone had 271 calls in February and a year‑to‑date total of 564 (about 6% above 2025).
Chief Lindner highlighted operational strain: average firefighter on duty and recall metrics have fluctuated, and inspection activity has declined in part because rising call volume reduces staff availability for inspections. He said the department recently used a member on light duty to boost inspections, bringing the year‑to‑date inspection count to 105.
Safety Director Dan Chafin and Chief Lindner pointed to demographic drivers in the Annual Report: “For 2025, the percentage was 69% above the age of 60,” Lindner said, and Chafin cited a county projection that, if trends continue, could result in roughly a 29% increase in call volume within five years. Committee members asked for historical staffing data and additional financial context to frame levy and contract decisions.
No formal staffing increases were approved at the meeting; the committee was asked to consider levies, EMS billing revenue, and township contract revenue in future budget discussions before approving additional full‑time positions.
