To the Editor:
At the town meeting supporters of the proposed $4.1 million dollar renovation failed to demonstrate that the cost of $585 per square foot was needed or justified. There is near universal agreement that EMS needs better facilities, that the staff is kind, dedicated and a benefit to all. That was never in question and is not on the ballot.
The question is can we give EMS a great facility at a lower cost. The answer is YES! EMS does not need copper gutters; it does not need a cedar shake roof that will cost more than double architectural shingles will cost; it does not need 3.5 bathrooms on the second floor; and does not need $125 thousand in high-end office furniture.
Our Police Department also does a great job and does so without a garage, and works out of a basement. A more than acceptable renovation at EMS can easily be achieved with few changes that will not hold up the project.
Do not be swayed solely by emotion. Look at the numbers and ask is all this needed? The answer is NO, and if this passes, know that your taxes will go up because the town has other major projects like new roof at Helen Keller Middle School right around the bend for $3 million.
We can do more with less if we do not spend beyond our means and beyond the true needs of EMS. EMS could get universal support by making some quick value engineering decisions, and I urge them to do so before the vote. If not, Vote No.
David Antonez
Easton
