More than 50 people attended last week's Springettsbury Township meeting, some upset over the possibility that the township may privatize its emergency medical services.

Resident Sara Frey told the board that she is in complete support of the township's current EMS service and can't understand why the township would consider fixing something that isn't broken.

"All things are not and should not be about dollars and cents," she said.

Board supervisor Bill Schenck said the township is considering private companies to provide the service. But he said the board has no intention of turning its back on the service provided to the community.

"The township is currently subsidizing this service," said Schenck. "The amount billed for these services does not cover the operation."

Four companies: Medical calls in the township are handled by Springettsbury's ambulance service, which has been in existence for decades, Schenck said.

Normally there are eight EMS employees, but there are currently seven.

All the employees work for the township but York Area United Fire & Rescue manages the service, he said.

Schenck told those in attendance that the township is in negotiations with at least four private companies, which would employ certified paramedics.

Response times: Schenck also said any private company selected would house their vehicles in the township, and dispatch time would not be affected. Memberships or subscriptions, which help to keep costs down to residents, would still be available.

"So far all of these companies can provide the service at a cost savings to the township," said Schenck. "And while I understand that a change like this would affect some long-standing and very loyal employees, the private providers are willing to employ current staff members."

Further discussion on the matter is expected next month.

-- Staff writer Greg Gross contributed to this report.