Central Mass Regional Emergency Center expands governance for new member towns

In a recent meeting of the Hubbardston Select Board, significant discussions centered around the establishment of a regional emergency dispatch center, which aims to enhance governance and transparency for local communities. The meeting highlighted the inclusion of additional towns into the Central Mass Regional Emergency Center, a move that promises to give smaller communities a stronger voice in decision-making processes.

Currently, the town of Rutland manages the dispatch services, but with the proposed changes, new towns will join the board, ensuring that each community has equal representation. This governance structure, based on a "one community, one vote" principle, is designed to prevent larger towns from dominating discussions and decisions, thereby leveling the playing field for smaller municipalities.

Board members expressed optimism about the potential for improved financial transparency and accountability in contracts, which had previously been a concern. The discussions revealed skepticism regarding the promised cost reductions associated with the inclusion of new towns, with members cautioning against believing that expenses would significantly decrease. Instead, they emphasized the importance of having a say in financial matters, including negotiations on contracts and budget assessments.

The meeting also touched on the anticipated financial implications for Hubbardston and other towns joining the district. Estimates indicated that if all interested towns were included, Hubbardston could see a reduction in its financial contributions, potentially saving around $65,000 compared to current costs. This prospect of lower expenses, coupled with enhanced governance, was met with enthusiasm by board members.

In conclusion, the Select Board's discussions reflect a pivotal moment for Hubbardston and its neighboring communities as they work towards a more equitable and transparent regional emergency dispatch system. The next steps will involve formalizing the governance structure and addressing any remaining concerns about financial assessments and operational transparency. As these changes unfold, the community will be watching closely to see how they impact local emergency services and overall governance.