During the recent City Council FY26 Budget Retreat in Rochester, NH, discussions highlighted critical staffing and budgetary needs for the city's dispatch and fire departments, reflecting ongoing efforts to enhance public safety services.

A significant focus was placed on the dispatch center, which primarily handles police, fire, and EMS calls. The Chief reported a staffing crisis that has plagued the center, although improvements are underway with nearly full staffing anticipated soon. The council discussed the need to increase the overtime budget for dispatch, which has been a pressing issue due to the staffing shortages. Additionally, there was a proposal to add an extra dispatcher to help manage the workload effectively, ensuring optimal staffing levels during busy periods.

The fire department also presented a level-funded budget, with adjustments made based on historical usage and current needs. Notably, the department reduced its medical services line by $11,000, as state funding will now cover specialized cancer screenings for firefighters. This proactive measure aims to address health concerns among firefighters, particularly younger personnel who may not meet standard screening age requirements.

Budget adjustments included a $10,000 reduction in equipment maintenance, reallocating funds to vehicle maintenance due to rising repair costs. The fire department also faced increased expenses related to clothing, driven by new regulations prohibiting the use of PFAS-containing materials in firefighter uniforms. This change necessitated a thorough inventory and replacement of affected gear, contributing to a $17,000 increase in the clothing budget.

The council also discussed the emergency management budget, which is influenced by Rochester's role as a host community for the Seabrook REP program. The Chief explained that while the budget figures are not finalized, they anticipate receiving approximately $48,000 for training and operational costs related to emergency preparedness.

Overall, the discussions at the budget retreat underscored the city’s commitment to enhancing public safety through strategic staffing and budgetary decisions. As the council moves forward, these adjustments aim to ensure that both the dispatch and fire departments can effectively serve the Rochester community, addressing both immediate needs and long-term safety goals.