At the heart of municipal government is a responsibility to ensure public safety.

 Consequently, as Biddeford continues to grow and change, the need for enhanced emergency response capabilities becomes increasingly evident. Thus, it is essential for every resident to stay abreast of pivotal developments that shape our community's future and its public safety. One key project is the proposed Eastern Biddeford Fire and EMS Substation.

In 2021, Eastern Biddeford's call response data revealed concerning delays, with many response times exceeding a crucial 6-minute threshold—often the difference between recovery and irreparable loss. Thankfully, an optimally located and adequately staffed substation could ensure that 90% - 95% of Eastern Biddeford residents would be within a 6-minute response radius.

Translating these numbers to a more human scale: Eastern Biddeford shelters 4,313 people, nearly one-fifth of our city's population. During the summer, this number increases with seasonal residents and coastal enthusiasts flocking to Biddeford’s beaches. Furthermore, the University of New England, a bustling hub of youth and educators, houses roughly 1,500 students and employs over 600 staff.

The stakes? They're palpably high. In dire health situations—like a heart attack or stroke—every minute saved in response time can mean the difference between life, lasting damage, or death. To put it starkly: a delay of just five minutes in a serious health situation can increase the odds of death by 46%.

However, this is not just about numbers or statistics. It is about lives—our neighbors, friends, family, and visitors. It is about safeguarding our community's future, and ensuring our city is equipped and ready to respond when each second truly counts.

So, where does this project currently stand?

This vital project continues to move forward. At the August 1st City Council meeting, $158,000 was approved for an architectural proposal and detailed building component list. It is crucial to note that these funds were already earmarked in the 2023 city budget, ensuring no unforeseen strain on our finances. With these funds approved, preliminary engineering and architectural plans are underway and anticipated to be completed by the end of 2023.

To get to this point, the meticulous work of our Eastern Fire/EMS Substation Committee cannot be understated. This dedicated team of volunteer residents rigorously assessed various factors, including need, location, equipment, staffing, scope, partnerships, and budget.

The Committee advocated for a modest substation built to serve our community's needs for at least the next decade. Importantly, they recommended it should be constructed with foresight, ensuring affordability in potential expansions over the next 20-30 years if needed. Our city owes a great deal of gratitude to these individuals for their tireless and thorough research to help make our community safer.

So, what lies ahead for the Eastern Biddeford Fire Substation?

The realization of this substation will require a municipal bond and, crucially, the voice of our community in a city-wide referendum in 2024. It is your voices and ultimately your votes that will decide the path forward. While the initial cost estimates of $3-$4 million may appear steep, the city is committed to identifying avenues to alleviate these expenses.

 The city will explore grant opportunities, potential federal funding, and strategic partnerships. Our community’s safety is invaluable, and every possible effort should be made to make this project feasible without overburdening our taxpayers.

Subsequently, the quest for funding, both for the substation's construction and its adequate staffing, will be woven into future city budget cycles. If funded and approved by 2024, construction will start by year's end. This would pave the way for an operational substation by 2026.

It is worth reiterating the broader vision: an Eastern Biddeford Fire Substation is not just for the eastern and coastal residents of Biddeford. By strategically positioning our resources, the City will enhance the framework and efficiency of all fire and EMS responses in Biddeford. Both the Central Station and the proposed Eastern Substation would work in tandem, optimizing our response times and ensuring that every Biddeford resident can rest easy, knowing help is always close at hand.

In summary, our shared vision is on the horizon: a Biddeford where safety is paramount, where responses are swift, and where every resident can have peace of mind. As we continue to chart this course towards a strategically-located, efficient, and effective emergency response system, your support, voice, and vote can turn this vision into our shared reality.

Stay safe and let's continue building a brighter Biddeford together.

Liam LaFountain is a first-term City Councilor in Biddeford and a healthcare analyst at the nonprofit Healthcare Purchaser Alliance. He welcomes questions, comments, and ideas and can be contacted directly at liam.lafountain@biddefordmaine.org.

The views and opinions herein are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the viewpoints and opinions of Saco Bay News, its employees, publisher, or advertisers.