New Berlin purchased a 2016 ambulance with the support of a generous donation. The team worked all day installing the power cot and automatic loading system (procured with the help of the Town of Columbus) and upgraded the radio system. (Submitted photo)

NEW BERLIN — A few months ago, New Berlin lost its Ambulance service due to expensive repairs needed but the cost would have been quite extensive. Mayor Peter Lennon said he and the board members decided to purchase a newer ambulance as they would never see a return on a potential resale.

Lennon said after playing Rubick’s Cube with four ambulances from four different sources, New Berlin finally was able to purchase a 2016 ambulance. Immediately, the the team began installing the power cot and automatic loading system and upgraded the radio system.

“The procurement for the vehicle would not have been possible without a substantial donation from New Berlin property-owner and frequent visitor Gerald ‘Jerry’ Applestein,” said Lennon.

Jerry quickly recognized the importance of a reliable, responsive medical transport vehicle and asked how he could help.

“Jerry truly helped and in a life saving way,” said Lennon. “On behalf of your many friends and neighbors and those who will undoubtedly become your friends, thank you for this amazing act of generosity and your continued support to all in the New Berlin community,” he said.

Lennon said they did have a small reserve built over time when the number of calls and transports were much higher and they dedicated a certain portion of the Emergency Medical System (EMS) budget toward that, but in fact, they have been operating in a deficit each month that’s eating away at their reserve.

The state has not determined ambulance service is an essential service. There is no state funding that comes with providing ambulance service to a municipality and the ambulance service must sustain itself financially.