A second legal opinion will be sought on a proposal by Woolwich’s EMS director to begin charging for some repeat ambulance calls when transports aren’t needed. The change may require an ordinance for voters to consider at the annual town meeting.

Selectman Dale Chadbourne said Monday, Maine Municipal Association recommended the change be put before voters. But before moving forward, the select board will get an opinion from its town attorney, Kristen Collins. Chadbourne chaired the meeting in David King Sr.’s absence. 

EMS Director Brian Carlton is recommending charging $150 for on-scene ambulance care when there’s no patient transport to a hospital. The proposal allows for three ambulance calls to the same patient in any six-month period before the charge would be applied.

To be determined is if a bylaw voters approved for ambulance billing two years ago can be amended to include the fee.

In another matter, Carlton and Fire Chief Mike Demers brought up concerns over the town’s contract with Bath for ambulance services. They said the contract requires Woolwich EMS to pay Bath $395 for all mutual aid ambulance calls including those requiring no transports and also for the loan of lifesaving equipment. Demers said Woolwich doesn’t charge Bath for fire or EMS mutual aid assistance.

Carlton said he voiced concerns over the contract’s wording at the select board’s June 17 meeting. The final contract with Bath was signed June 25 before he or the fire chief could review it, he added. The board tabled further discussion on the contract until King could be present.

On Sunday, the fire and EMS departments held a recognition banquet at Montsweag Farm restaurant. EMS award recipients included Juliet Huston, “Unsung Hero”; Zach Miller, “EMS Director Award”; and Doug Maheux, “EMS Provider of the Year.” Fire department awards included “Firefighter of the Year,” Robert Wibarger; “Larry J. Albert Award”, Capt. Lonny Rowe; and “Fire Officer of the Year,” Deputy Chief Glen Kirkpatrick.

Selectman Allen Greene said that at the town office Friday morning, Dec. 20, Woolwich Central School eight graders will drop off holiday food donations they’ve collected.

According to the town, curbside trash and recycling pickup will be on Monday the next two weeks, Dec. 23 and 30.