Johnsburg EMS director outlines history, asks town for $10,000 increase

Joe Connolly, director of Johnsburg EMS, told the Town Board the squad has evolved from volunteer runs to a nonprofit with roughly 25 employees and growing operational costs, and formally asked the town for an additional $10,000 in annual support.

"We are asking for a 10,000, 10% increase this year," Connolly said during his presentation, describing the squad's shift to paid day staffing to improve response reliability. He said billing covers roughly 35% of the squad's costs and that the average household contribution to keep coverage available is roughly $100 a year.

Connolly walked the board through the service's history, training requirements and recent investments — including FEMA‑funded equipment and ongoing EKG monitor replacement needs — and stressed that smaller ambulances (Mercedes Sprinters) and local staffing reduce long‑term costs. He noted mutual aid arrangements and that 15% of calls originate in neighboring Minerva, which pays a proportionate share.

Board members asked clarifying questions about how the requested funds would be used and whether the increase fits into the draft budget. Connolly described the request as part of multi‑year stabilization after the town increased support in 2023 to allow benefits and more competitive wages.

The presentation closed with Connolly offering to take questions after the meeting and providing contact information on his informational flyer.