The Algoma Town Board met on Sunday and voted against establishing a new emergency medical services (EMS) district that would have placed the town’s EMS under a shared governance structure with the City of Oshkosh. The decision came after a robust public hearing in which residents voiced strong concerns about losing influence over local emergency services.
Community voices drive the outcome
“Very happy and pleased with the ultimate outcome,” said Don Houde, a member of the Algoma Fire Department. “I know they left the door open to bring it up again, but I think the compassion of the town, the community emphasizes the work that we do.” Houde’s remarks reflected the sentiment echoed by many town residents who feared the proposed district would diminish Algoma’s voice.
Town Administrator Maggie Mahoney explained that the district would not have changed the actual level of service—Algoma already contracts with Oshkosh for ambulance coverage—but would have altered the governance framework. “I do not think the town would agree to a government structure that would not give us a more equal place at the table,” Mahoney said.
Financial hopes set aside
Proponents of the EMS district had highlighted a potential $50,000 annual state grant that could have funded local initiatives for several years. However, board members and volunteers weighed that possible benefit against the loss of direct control. “If we join this district, we’ll be the minority,” argued Algoma resident Scott Middleton, underscoring the concern that Algoma would have limited influence over decisions affecting its own emergency responders.
Fire Chief Kevin Sawicki warned that the district proposal was the first step toward a full merger of the fire departments. “We keep hearing this EMS district, EMS district,” he said. “The whole plan is laid out. It’s one through five. You can focus on the one, but the rest of it’s there.” Volunteers and firefighters rallied behind the board’s decision, emphasizing the importance of preserving the town’s independent fire service.
Study findings and next steps
Robert Whitaker of McMahon Associates, who led a study on the potential merger, noted that the district would simply shift the governance model without altering service delivery. “You’re providing the same service under a different governance agreement,” Whitaker said.
The board’s vote does not preclude future discussions. Mahoney indicated that the topic could be revisited if circumstances change, but for now Algoma’s EMS and fire services will continue operating under the existing arrangement.
Local context
Algoma currently does not face a shortage of volunteer firefighters, a situation that contrasts with challenges reported in other Wisconsin communities. The town’s decision reflects a broader trend of small municipalities safeguarding local control over essential services, especially when state funding incentives are outweighed by concerns about representation and autonomy.
By rejecting the EMS district proposal, Algoma residents and officials reaffirmed their commitment to community‑driven public safety, ensuring that local voices remain central to decisions that affect daily life in the town.
Original reporting: FOX 11 WLUK Green Bay (local) — read the source article.
