LISBON
Lisbon will work Lisbon Emergency into its budget process moving forward.
Following a public hearing at its meeting Tuesday night, the Lisbon Town Council took the first step to retaining the town’s ambulance service by planning to pay the provider for the first time.
Lisbon Emergency had previously managed to run on grant programs, while servicing the towns of Lisbon and Bowdoin. The ambulance provider requested $129,885 from Lisbon and $30,000 from Bowdoin for the next fiscal year. Lisbon’s expense for services would increase to $149,172 and $199,245 in the following fiscal years.
Town councilors heard little opposition from residents about retaining the services of Lisbon Emergency. One resident asked if anyone from the town had reached out to local hospitals about assistance for funding to reduce the burden on taxpayers. Councilors pointed out that United, based in Lewiston, is the hospital’s provider, and response times would significantly increase. Residents voiced support for maintaining a fast service.
“If it were not for Lisbon Emergency, I would not be here,” said one resident. “It’s worth an extra $20 or $30 in taxes to potentially save the life of a loved one.”
Councilors praised Lisbon Emergency for working to keep the level of service the same and minimizing the cost to the town. The ambulance provider was founded in 1977 by a group of local citizens and is made up predominantly of volunteers. Councilor Norm Albert worked on a subcommittee formed to work out an agreement with Lisbon Emergency.
“One thing I got from them is that none of them are doing this to get rich,” said Albert. “They do this because they love to serve their community.”
Councilor Fern Larochelle added that the decision to move forward and fund Lisbon Emergency has been a long, thought out process. He noted safety and education are consistently two of residents’ most important concerns.
Councilors acknowledged concern about what could happen down the road if Bowdoin opted out of an agreement with Lisbon Emergency. However, Albert pointed out there would be time to prepare and pull data to look at the number of calls to Bowdoin before the budget process.
The ambulance provider needs a commitment to continue service by July 1.
chris@timesrecord.com
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