From time to time, as I think about and analyze a current issue or problem, I am often reminded of the old saying, “If it ain’t broke don’t fix it.” My reference here, you may surmise, relates to the Harvard Ambulance Service issue. Given the sensitivities involved, and the import of this service to Harvard, I find it hard to understand the Board of Selectmen’s decision on billing for ambulance services. This is a road well-traveled.
The HAS and BOS negotiated billing about five years ago, when I was a selectman. There were points—good points—on both sides of the billing issue, but given the very strong feelings of the HAS, the selectmen decided to take no action. As I recall, there may have been financial benefits, but they were questionable. Other factors I considered were the long positive service to the town and the squad’s strong citizen support. What I found especially rewarding was the ambulance service’s sponsorship of the Cadet Program—an activity that introduces Harvard’s young citizens to volunteerism and public service.
What does not have appeal is the BOS chairman’s statement, as reported in our local papers, that “the current board does not have to abide by the previous board’s decision.”
Technically correct? Sure. Legally correct? Yes. Personally and politically obtuse and vacuous? Definitely. It is the type of rejoinder from a person in a power position to a citizen of otherwise equal standing that would tick off the latter individual. It looks like many are ticked off. I am one of those.
Professionally, I worked for more than 50 years in the federal government and private sector, much of the time in positions of authority and influence. Much of this work required close contact and cooperation with state agencies and private organizations. Also, I was an elected town official for 25 years. There is a record of accomplishment of which I am proud. However, I long ago noted that most positive accomplishments depended upon trust—trust among individuals, trust with other organizations. Promises must be kept. Precedent is important. And if change must occur, all affected must be involved in the process. Therefore, I urge selectmen to put this issue before voters at the next Town Meeting.
Bill Ashe
Myrick Lane
