At the request of the WEMS Board of Directors, The Town of Wells is taking steps to explore a possible merger between Wells Emergency Medical Services (WEMS) and the Wells Fire Department. On December 17, the Select Board unanimously approved a motion to consider incorporating WEMS operations into the Fire Department and authorized the Town Manager to gather relevant information, including budgetary and personnel impacts.
In response to the Board's decision, the Town has established a strategic planning group that will meet regularly to assess the potential blending of services. The exploratory group is comprised of representatives from WEMS, the Fire Department, the Select Board, and Town Management. The primary goal of this group is to ensure that the Town continues to receive the excellent service it is accustomed to, while evaluating the potential blending of operations. This group will focus on ensuring a smooth transition while seamlessly maintaining its high-quality emergency response services for the community.
Regular updates will be provided as discussions progress, ensuring transparency and keeping residents and personnel informed throughout the process.
For more information and future updates, stay tuned to the Town’s official channels.
Strategic Planning Group
- Tim Roche, Wells Select Board Member
- Jim Smith, Wells Select Board Member
- Mike Pardue, Wells Town Manager
- Brian Toomey, WEMS Board Chair
- Don Gonynor, WEMS Board Vice Chair
- Steve Merrill, WEMS Director
- Brian Watkins, WEMS Deputy Director / Paramedic
- Gus Dunham, WEMS Per Diem / Basic EMT
- Jonathan Gay, Wells Fire Department Assistant Chief & Paramedic
- Tyler Belanger, Wells Fire Department FF/EMT-A and President, IAFF Local 4652
- Eric Beaulieu, Wells Fire Department FF/ Paramedic
- Rebekah Kelley, Communications
Key Areas of Focus
The planning group will explore a variety of topics, including:
- Budget & Financial Impact – Evaluating costs and funding sources
- Personnel Considerations – Staffing levels, roles, and responsibilities
- Operational Changes – Service delivery and response times
- Community Impact – Ensuring seamless emergency services
- Regulatory Requirements – Compliance with state and federal guidelines
- Technology & Equipment Needs – Evaluating current and future resources
- SWOT Analysis – Identifying strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats
Minutes and Agendas
April 14, 2025 Meeting Agenda
March 10, 2025 Meeting Agenda
March 10, 2025 Meeting Minutes
February 10, 2025 Meeting Agenda
February 10, 2025 Meeting Minutes