To the Editor:
I have said it for the past three years. This is an Easton first initiative. Whether you are a Democrat, Republican or Unaffiliated. Whether you are a senior citizen or elementary school child. Whether you live in town or just pass through. This vote impacts everyone.
I have been involved in this project as a member of the building committee. Also as a member of the Board of Finance. Many in town know me for my finance and accounting background. What many do not know is I also have 15 years experience as an EMT and emergency services dispatcher. Why did I join a volunteer-based EMS service? Because that’s what EMS is “neighbors helping neighbors.”
The goal of the building committee was to create a suitable workplace and living environment for our volunteers. One that would require minimal maintenance to have less impact on future town budgets. It also had to be “value engineered” to the extent that the taxpayer is getting the most for their money. It also had to look good and fit in with what we know to be Easton. I firmly believe this project accomplishes this.
From the reorganization of existing space to choosing materials that are durable and long lasting. From creating a safer access to Sport Hill Road. To allowing the town to not buy custom ambulances in the future. The new facility would save the taxpayers money in the future.
This building is “an asset.” Many have seen the current state of the building. Failing septic, asbestos, not accessible to the handicapped, and quite frankly, the by-product of years of neglected deferred maintenance.
I remember 30 years ago, Marge Smith, chief of Easton EMS, would convince me to do an extra shift after my overnight. She would often talk about fundraising for a new building. I would ask, “What can I do to help?” Because that’s what EMS is, neighbors helping neighbors. She would say, “Mike, we got this.”
I applaud Easton EMS for raising $800,000. This along with state and federal grants has reduced the impact to the taxpayer. The total impact to town funds is $1.8 million. I firmly believe, after hours of meetings and input, this is an amazing value. The building committee unanimously chose the architect and agreed this was the best path forward.
Whether it’s early morning and your wife or husband can’t breathe. Whether it’s lunchtime and your daughter is choking on one of dad’s hot dogs. Whether it’s the middle of the night and your son crashed the car on Black Rock Turnpike.
I firmly ask you to vote yes on Tuesday! Because that’s what neighbors do, help their amazing volunteer neighbors. Easton, “We got this.” Vote yes on Tuesday. Thank you.
Michael Gutowski
Easton
