Shamong Township is actively exploring all available options for delivering the highest quality emergency services in the township.
Mayor Michael Di Croce gave an update on the subject at a township committee meeting on May 5.
“Historically EMS in Shamong, as most of you know, has relied on volunteers,” he said. “While that model served our community well for many years, it is no longer sustainable on its own. As a result, we are evaluating alternatives that will ensure consistent and reliable coverage going forward.”
The township is inviting several surrounding EMS providers to its next emergency services subcommittee on Thursday, May 21, to submit proposals that will compare service-level response times and costs.
“Our goal is to secure the best possible combination of value and service for our community,” Di Croce noted.
Tabernacle Rescue Squad has been providing EMS services to Shamong since the 2021 closure of the latter’s EMS, which had served the township since 1992, according to reports.
“Any transition to a more formalized EMS structure will likely result in a tax increase,” Di Croce explained, noting officials “want to be transparent.”
“With that said, we are committed to keeping any increase as low as possible,” he added. “While we still ensure that our residents receive the emergency care that they deserve, we will continue to keep the public informed as we move through the process.”
As far as the municipal budget, Di Croce said like many communities, Shamong faces significant cost pressures.
“The most notable is the transition of the EMS from volunteer base model to a paid professional service,” he related, thanking Dave Taylor – a former Shamong EMS chief and now captain of the Tabernacle Rescue Squad – for his many years of service. This change is now necessary to ensure reliable coverage and timely emergency response for our residents.
“In addition, Di Croce added, “we are experiencing rising health-care costs; standard cost-of-living increases; and the need for critical capital investment, including purchases of our new fire truck, which is more than $700,000, compounding these changes and challenges.
“We have also seen a reduction in state aid.”
As a result of the combined factors, a tax increase will likely be necessary, Di Croce reported.
“Please know that this is not a decision that we take likely,” he pointed out. “We remain committed to managing your tax dollars responsibly, making thoughtful and necessary investments and maintaining high level of service that you expect and deserve.
“Every effort is being made to minimize the impact on our residents while ensuring public safety and essential services are not compromised.
“We will continue to treat every resident with respect and courtesy,” Di Croce promised. “We pledge to keep taxes as low as possible while meeting the needs of our community.”
The next township committee meeting will be held at 7:30 p.m. on Tuesday, June 9.
A Tabernacle Rescue Squad rig on standby at the Curly Fern Enduro in March, a Pinelands tradition. EMS coverage of the event had been spearheaded by former Shamong EMS chief Dave Taylor for many years, according to the squad.
