The Town of Yorktown is taking a thoughtful and deliberate approach to evaluating the future of its Emergency Medical Services (EMS), with a clear priority: ensuring high-quality, reliable care while maintaining fiscal responsibility for taxpayers.
Like many communities across New York State, Yorktown is facing increasing challenges in sustaining EMS delivery. Rising call volumes, workforce shortages and escalating operational costs are placing pressure on traditional volunteer-based and hybrid systems. These trends are not unique to Yorktown, but they underscore the importance of planning ahead.
Importantly, residents should know that ambulance service in Yorktown is in no way in jeopardy. Emergency medical response remains strong and fully operational. Claims to the contrary — specifically comments made by Councilwoman Susan Siegel at a recent Town Board meeting — are inaccurate and unnecessarily alarm residents.
EMS is too important to be driven by speculation or rushed decision-making. While Councilwoman Siegel has advocated for accelerating the process, town leadership is committed to getting this right through a measured, data-driven approach that prioritizes long-term stability over short-term reactions.
At the same time, New York State is actively reviewing and updating its policies and expectations surrounding EMS systems. These evolving standards may shape how municipalities structure, fund and deliver emergency medical care in the years ahead. As a result, Yorktown officials believe it is critical to fully understand these forthcoming requirements before making any long-term decisions.
To that end, the town is preparing to issue a Request for Proposals (RFP) for a comprehensive EMS study. This study will evaluate current service levels, identify future needs, and explore potential models for sustainable delivery. However, town leadership is intentionally not rushing this process in the absence of clear state guidance.
EMS is one of the most important services we provide. We are not going to rush into decisions based on incomplete information or public pressure. We will take the time to ensure any plan we develop is responsible, sustainable and in the best interest of our residents.
As part of this effort, Yorktown will be convening a regional roundtable with government and EMS partners to share perspectives and coordinate planning. The meeting will take place on March 30, at 7 p.m., in the Town of Cortlandt.
By waiting for clearer direction from New York State and engaging regional stakeholders, Yorktown aims to ensure that any study—and any subsequent decisions—are informed, strategic and aligned with emerging best practices.
The goal is simple: protect the health and safety of residents while building a system that is sustainable, efficient and responsive for years to come.
Ed Lachterman is Yorktown Town Supervisor.
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