AFTON — During a recent Chenango County board meeting, supervisors approved an agreement to lease space at the Afton Fire Station for $600 a month to house Emergency Medical Services (EMS) through Dec. 31, 2029.

The resolution passed with 15 yes and four no votes amid debate over county funding and long-term emergency plans for local towns.

EMS Coordinator James Dean told the board they had searched for alternative housing options without success, noting one potential location carried a $1,500 monthly lease but would need renovation.

He also added the county was paying $1,000 for leased space and would have continued to do so if the new contract between the Afton firehouse and EMS was not approved.

Dean explained the Afton Fire Department was struggling with staffing and providing services. That was when the county stepped in to find a resolution.

He noted EMS purchased one of Afton's ambulances, releasing the other, while staffing the ambulance to cover the local area.

"We are committed to be down there and look forward to providing service to that end of the county," Dean said.

Norwich Wards 4, 5 and 6 Supervisor Robert Jeffrey questioned the county paying for the ambulance and services, plus providing around-the-clock services to a single municipality under the arrangement.

“We already pay significantly toward registrations and city taxes,” Jeffrey said. “Every township should have a plan, around the clock.”

Additional officials raised concerns regarding the rental fee and asked whether an offset could be applied.

Jeffrey suggested a nominal fee of $1 a year to balance contributions, stating that the county is providing all operational support.

He also expressed concern that other towns might request similar arrangements if the agreement moves forward, warning, "Be careful what you ask for."

EMS coverage in the Afton area under the new contract starts Nov. 1. According to Dean, the schedule will alternate weekly between four days and three days of daytime and overnight coverage until the department reaches full 24/7 staffing.

Daytime hours will be from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. and overnight hours from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m.