Thomaston Select Board and Budget Committee vote to recommend new fire and EMS station referendum


At a Dec. 9 joint meeting, the Thomaston Select Board and Budget Committee voted unanimously to recommend a $3.5 million bond proposal for construction of a new Fire and EMS station.
The bond will only proceed if it is matched by $3.5 million in Congressional funds, according to Thomaston Town Manager Kara George. Voters will consider the bond at a Feb. 4 referendum, when polls will be open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Voter approval of the bond is required in order for Thomaston to apply for the federal grant. The grant cycle opens in March and may represent the last chance to secure such funding, she said.
Thomaston has produced a chart that outlines potential tax implications on property owners if the bond is approved.
The numbers are based on a 20-year bond with a 4.10 percent interest rate. An example: For a homeowner with an assessed property value of $400,000, the project would increase annual property taxes by approximately $220, or approximately $4.23 per week.
Thomaston needs a new fire and EMS station for four main reasons, the town said:
- Outdated Facilities: The current station, built in 1956, no longer meets the needs of modern emergency services.
- Inadequate Sleeping Quarters: EMS staff are working 24-hour shifts but lack proper sleeping facilities, violating OSHA standards.
- OSHA Compliance: New federal safety standards under review will require dedicated decontamination areas, sprinkler systems, and emission controls, among other updates.
- Space Limitations: Larger fire apparatus barely fit in the current bays, and the apron is too small for safe maneuvering.
The town has also outline benefits of a new station:
- Faster response times with 24-hour coverage.
- Improved safety and compliance with OSHA regulations.
- Attracts and retains qualified first responders.
- Enhances emergency services with better training facilities, proper sleeping quarters, and larger bays.
Voters will decide on the warrant article at the referendum on Tuesday, February 4. Absentee ballots will be available starting Monday, January 6, at the Thomaston Town Office.
Visit www.thomastonmaine.gov for more information.