Could Emergency Services Be Consolidated?

Last Wednesday, with the election behind them, Stafford’s current Board of Selectmen (BOS) met for the last time. Selectman Rick Hartenstein did not run this year, and as such, November 5, 2025, was his last meeting. On the other hand, Tim Cromwell, who was sworn in to fill a vacancy back in September and also won in the election, attended his first meeting as a Selectman.

First Selectman Bill Morrison noted that Hartenstein has been involved on town boards and commissions for more than 20 years, and he won’t be going anywhere any time soon. In fact, Hartenstein is still part of the Emergency Services Commission (ESC), and he presented a memo on some of the findings of that commission, which was tasked with reviewing the Advanced Life Support (ALS) program and existing fire departments. 

According to a memo provided by Hartenstein, “Given our town’s geography, it is essential to retain the use of the existing three fire stations.” A survey was distributed to volunteers across the departments and “included questions such as whether to consolidate all three departments, consolidate two departments with the Ambulance standing alone, the willingness to continue volunteering, and whether to hire paid personnel.”

The results showed a preference for consolidating the fire departments and ambulance services under a single chief with deputy positions. “Additionally, current members indicated a clear preference for hiring a Chief who is not currently engaged with emergency services in Stafford.” 

The study also resulted in recommendations that both fire departments respond to all calls, and that has already been implemented. According to the memo, “This collaboration has increased the number of responders available for each call.” Increasing the pay for part-time and per diem ambulance employees has also “...enhance staff willingness to take additional shifts, thereby generating increased revenues for the ambulance operating account.” 

Ultimately, the ESC recommended that the BOS continue to explore the consolidation of the services.