The Lisbon Reporter

WELCOME TO THE LISBON REPORTER. In an effort to keep our community informed of what is going on at local and Federal levels of government, we decided to create this on-line newspaper. It is our hope that this on-line newspaper will help you stay informed so that you can get involved and take action for the benefit of our ENTIRE community. Thank you for visiting and please check back frequently for information about what is happening in LISBON/LISBON FALLS, MAINE USA

Monday, May 9, 2016

DO THE PEOPLE OF LISBON/DURHAM DESERVE THE BEST POSSIBLE EMERGENCY SERVICES??????????

This is the real questions behind whether or not to close the Lisbon Communication Center and move dispatching to the Androscoggin County Dispatch. It all boils down to how quickly First Responders are dispatched to the scene of an emergency. This is because, in an emergency, time is the most critical factor. It is just common sense the quicker First Responders are on the scene; the better the chances are for survival.

Currently, under agreement with the town First Responders are dispatched by the Lisbon Communication Center ONLY after being notified by the County. When the County cannot reach the Lisbon Communication Center on 3353-2500, and this has happened numerous times, there is a delay dispatching First Responders. This system puts citizens at risk for their lives. This year the Lisbon Communication Center will cost the taxpayers $363,102.00.

Modern technology has advanced in Maine and all over the country. The Androscoggin County Dispatch has the capabilities to dispatch our First Responders upon receipt of a 911 call. This system eliminates the need to contact the Lisbon Communication Center and eliminates any time delay dispatching our First Responder. This increases the chances of survival.

The previous Town Council figured moving to the Androscoggin County Dispatch would save the taxpayers approximately $190,000.00. The Town Manager and Chief Brooks were working with Sheriff Samson at one point to move dispatching to the County. However, last October/November Chief Brooks sabotaged the project with a dog and pony show changing the minds of the Town Council.

Why the Town Council would change their minds on saving tax dollars and speeding up dispatching our First Responder; I will never know. As far as I am concern, the decision was NOT in the best interest of the community. Chairman Bickford wants to delay moving forward on this project so the people of Lisbon can decide what they want by voting in November on this. Below are the two options:

1. Option 1. Keep the Lisbon Communication Center and continue to pay $363,102.00. This system will continue to have to wait until the County notifies them before they can dispatch our First Responders.

2. Option 2. Move to the Androscoggin County Dispatch and save approximately $190,000.00 tax dollars (not my figures but the Town Council). This systems dispatch our First Responders upon receipt of the 911 call directly.

So now, which option provides the community with the best solution for emergency services? Contact your Councilor and tell them which you prefer so that the town does not have to wait any longer in moving the community forward.

Larry Fillmore