02/22/1993 BOARD OF SELECTMEN Minutes

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BOARD OF SELECTMEN Page MINUTES O DA , ' E R AR' , IL993 Public Hearin - Ambulance Service/Fee Change continued of $5 is low and should be increased, but not to an excessive amount, Chairman Cafyn pointed out -a $ o balance would -exist after insurance reimbursement of 8-0%if the Ambulance Service base charge is increased t $1500 George of the Mashpee Fire Department explained there has been no increase in ambulance service rates during the last seven years. All monies collected are applied to maintenance of the vehicles to keep then in good condition. Ms. Caffyn asked the procedure of the present billing system. It was pointed out that three billings are seat out - - the last is stamped and is not sent out again. Periodic -ally, The Department asks for a "blanket abatement" to cover all balances due in order to clean up the bookkeeping records. It was suggested that a policy change may be needed from The Board of Selectmen so that billing reflects message that people who cannot afford to pay the balance should contact The Fire Department Billing Office. Upon question from Ms. Deidre Greelish, Robert Whritenour stated Ma s hpee is currently paying off a five-year mote on $75,.,000 ambulance; the total cost is over $0,0. Ms. Greelish pointed out the next new ambulance could be a cash purchase if The Town waited another year. Upon question from Selectman vaccaro, .it was stated the life of a new ambulance is about eight to ten years. Selectman vaccaro expressed opinion Ms. Greelish has made a good point - - waiting to purchase would. allow The Town. to have a "paid for" vehicle. Selectman mills stated she would approve an increase if , within a thirty -day t ime f rame , The Fire Department Billing oface advises The Board of Selectmen of the method to be used to inform people they have a right to an abatement.' ms. mills' following motion is based on this statement: 46Y *The motion was made by Selectman Mills The Board approve an increase in am ul ance services to $1 5 for base charge and $5 for loaded mile; the motion was made -second by Selectman vaccaro; motion passed. VOTE: Unanimous. - . Fire Chief (Resignation). Chairman Ca f fyn read aloud the letter of February 22, 1993 from Fire Chief Robert Ridgeway regarding his intent to resign. Mr. Ridgeway has accepted a position in a city in the Mid Jest and is resigning as Mashpee Fire Chief effective April 12, 1993. He recommended Mr. Baker for Flare Chief after his departure and thanked Mashpeels Town officials for their support over the past five years. Be also thanked Fire Department 'for their effort and devotion to serge and protect citizens with a well equipped and -well trained department.