Edgewood –– Santa Fe County and the the Town of Edgewood say they have reached a new agreement to avoid interruptions in fire service for Edgewood for the near future and study whether Edgewood should create it’s own fire department down the road.
The framework for the agreement was shared in a joint news release from both governments Tuesday afternoon. If approved by the town and county commissions, the agreement preserves a payment structure that has been in place since 2005 and had been at the center of the dispute that resulted in the county announcing that it would end fire service later this year. The town will pay the equivalent of the 0.25% county area fire excise tax and impact fees equal to what the county collects in unincorporated areas. Additionally, Edgewood will pay $2.27 million in installments — starting with a $50,000 initial payment followed by 222 monthly payments of $10,000 — to cover technical support and capital for continued services, such as replacement ambulances.
Unlike previous versions, this agreement would only terminate with five years notice, allowing the town and county to plan future changes. The county also committed to providing technical support should Edgewood evaluate developing its own fire department and will offer the town serviceable surplus apparatuses if they do.
“The payment structure… is conceptually sound and not unfair to the Town,” said Santa County Manager Gregory S. Shaffer, adding it ensures residents continue to receive “first-rate” services. Edgewood Mayor Mike Rariden stated the agreement “lays the groundwork to ensure continued services while also recognizing community preferences.”
The Town Commission plans to consider the agreement on April 28. The Board of County Commissioners has scheduled a special meeting and public hearing for feedback on May 1. Final approval is required from both governing bodies and the New Mexico Secretary of Finance and Administration.