Fire and EMS

While attending the Council Workshop earlier this year, a topic that has come up in many conversations over the past year resurfaced: full-time Fire and EMS service. I believe most of us can agree that moving to a 24/7 model for our Fire and EMS is a smart step forward for Hudson (though some have recently told me they believe our current system still works—but I digress).

This wasn’t a debate over whether it should happen. It is happening. It’s moving forward, and we're on track to achieve the 6-minute response time that can mean all the difference for a family.

Hudson is a great community that deserves to feel safe, and I believe the 24/7 hybrid model set to begin in 2026 is a strong step in the right direction. It will provide consistent coverage of four firefighters and five EMS personnel every day, around the clock. With a moderate investment of $1.2 million—funded through the postponement of a few capital projects and a grant currently being pursued—the city is taking a fiscally responsible approach.

By comparison, implementing a fully staffed, four-truck firehouse would cost an additional $4.2 million annually. This could result in the average Hudson household seeing a $512 increase in property taxes per year—with no significant improvement in response times. While "bigger" can sound appealing, it's essential that we take the time to understand what this hybrid model can truly accomplish.

The current budget plan includes a scheduled review every five years. This will allow us to gather meaningful, Hudson-specific data regarding the hybrid model. With this information in hand, we’ll be able to make informed decisions about whether further expansion of our Fire and EMS services is necessary.

Throughout my career in higher education, I’ve focused on evaluating data, managing budgets, and making SMART decisions—supporting various offices, professors, deans, and university presidents alike. As we face this important decision that directly affects our families' safety, we must avoid rash choices and instead make thoughtful, WISE decisions. That’s why I’m asking for your support as a candidate for Hudson City Council.

We need someone with real experience—someone who’s analyzed data, managed large budgets, and made decisions that have positively impacted thousands of families.