The OVRS has had problems in the past keeping the squad manned during the day. The OFD has trained all firefighters in basic first aid and CPR but have no vehicle to transport patients. At one time they contemplated in buying a transport vehicle and the OVRS rallied to keep OFD out. The City backed down and we continue to send vehicle to squad calls at the tax payers expense.
Most people do not understand that the OVRS bills many of their customers that have insurance. This leads to thousands of dollars and those that do not have insurance get a free ride. My concern is there are very few fires in Ogdensburg, we have trained firefighters who would need some more training, no more building inspections, and this may be a revenue generator to offset the cost of the OFD.
Every option must be considered in tough economic times. Taking over the OVRS is not putting anyone out of work!
7 comments:
The Ogdensburg Resue squad had major support from the community. Trying to take over would be harder than getting the drug dealers out of OGd.
We in no way need to add to the manpower in Ogdensburg. In fact we need tolook at the possiblility of volunteer fire fighters.
Its almost certain now that the Ogdensburg correctional facility will be closed within the next six to eight months. More disaster for our area. This prision along with a camp in Malone area and Dry Hill in Watertwon are almost one hundred percent sure to close. This alone will be felt by taxpayers without adding to government in this God forsaken City. The squad has had major support from the community and will continue toget support. All thats needed is a few more volunteers.. How about the COs and firemen volunteering how about Cops do they volunteer?
The squad does a commendable job however we cant afford to add to government.
I think a study should be done on how to go to a volunteer fire dept such as Massena has. Makes sense in these time.
We already pay for the OFD to sit there all day. We need to give them something to do, that could possibly generate some income. I would not support adding men to the force, they are already there.
If the author wants to add men I disagree but it could be worth looking into if they already respond to the calls.
I understand what you mean and I agree with what you say. However I feel the union will balk. If they do the only alternative would be to hire more and that I feel we should balk at.. By the way they still are looking for a recreation director.. I say elimate this job and let the people who run it now for a stipend keep doing it. Use the excess money for something like the squad deal.
Firemen used to care a bout the community. In the winter they helped make rinks throughout the city sincerely helped the people, not just sat around in comfort and ate and slept.. I agree when there is a fire they ear their money but how often is that..
Thats why I feel we need an extensive sutive to find out if we could go all volunteer. Pros and Cons from both sides. Massena does it and they are actually bigger than us.
The OFD &OVRS work very well together. The OVRS os one the best ambulance services in NYS. If the OFD were to take over this service they would also bill for the service & would still need an additional $200,000.00 in taxpayer money each year. The city provides the OVRS with free sewer & water, snow plowing, and vehicle fuel at cost. No other taxpayer funds are provided to the OVRS. In addition to the city, the OVRS also covers the Town of Oswegatchie, Heuvelton, & Depeyster. It also provides Advanced Life Support services to Morristown, Hammond, Waddington, & other surrounding areas. The OVRS invites any interested persons to stop in for a tour of the building, arrange for a ride along experience, and/or pick up a membership application.
Storm they provide a great service just looking for ways to cut costs. With both the OVRS and the OFD responding to all calls is a duplication of services. Which is a no no in tough economic times.
Thanks for your comment.
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