Does Harpswell have a need for a central fire station? There were 877 total 911 calls for Harpswell in 2024. In 2024 and historically, a very large percentage of calls were for emergency medical services. Fire calls, for actual building fires or chimney fires, made up a very small percentage.
The central station is estimated to cost $6 million. Not accounted for in this figure is the cost of firefighter pay and benefits, about $80,000 per year, per firefighter; and interest on the loan. The total cost may be as high as $11 million to $12 million over 20 years.
How long will it be before Harpswell elects to go to 24/7 coverage by staff firefighters? Can enough firefighters be hired and retained? Local paid fire departments cannot hire enough firefighters.
What will be the effect on volunteers? Will existing volunteers support the central station and continue to volunteer?
In conclusion, the construction of a central fire station has been strongly advocated for by members of the Harpswell Fire and Rescue Planning Committee. Members’ opinions are based on their experience and desire to have a central fire station, not on current data. A comprehensive study has not been done in many years.
An up-to-date, comprehensive, data-based study needs to be initiated immediately. This new, current evaluation of the need and costs may well conclude that a central fire station should be pursued. Conversely, it may conclude that a central fire station is not warranted at this time and propose alternatives. Either way, the residents of Harpswell will be assured of a current, data-based conclusion prior to voting in a referendum.
Paul Kittle, Orr’s Island
Emergency Medical Technician and Firefighter
