Paddock Lake reaches agreement with Salem for fire/EMS protection

Paddock Lake will pay more to Salem for fire and emergency medical services over the next four years, but has retained a flat fee structure.

The village paid the town about $161,000 last year for fire and EMS services. Over the next four yeas, the village will pay:

• $171,500 in 2011.
• $179,519 in 2012.
• $187,538 in 2013.
• $195,557 in 2014.

In subsequent years, the contract approved by Salem on Monday and Paddock Lake on Wednesday calls for an annual increase equal to the Consumers Price Index or 3 percent, whichever is lower. If the CPI declines the fee will remain the same.

Village Trustee Christine Bucko said the contract was the result of about a year’s worth of negotiations.

“Our goal was to save residents money and get the best service we can,” said Bucko, chairman of the Police and Fire Committee.

While the village explored many options, it was never because of dissatisfaction with Salem Fire/Rescue.

“They have always done a great job for us,” she said.

The village approved the contract 7-0. The Salem Town Board approved the same contract Monday night, with Chairman Linda Valentine voting against approval.

During negotiations, Salem officials had said they wanted to have Paddock Lake pay more than they had in recent years to make the fee more equitable with what Salem residents pay toward the same services.

On Monday, Salem Fire/Rescue Chief David Slover said he was satisfied with the new agreement.

“We worked pretty hard to get this done,” Slover said. “I think it’s good for us.”