NORWICH – Since Superior Ambulance pulled out of Chenango County, the City of Norwich Common Council has been discussing the number of runs their ambulances make outside of the city’s contracted service area and how fair this is to taxpayers.

On Tuesday, they discussed one possibility that might provide a solution for everyone involved. Fire Chief Tracy Chawgo told the members of the Finance/Personnel Committee that the city could choose to charge a non-residential ambulance fee for responding to outside calls.

City ambulances are often called to areas outside of their response area, and in recent months, council members have said it is unfair for city taxpayers to foot-the-bill for the ambulance service when non-city residents can get the same services at no additional cost. The non-residential surcharge would apply to residents in Chenango County who do not reside in the City of Norwich or any of the towns that contract with the city for fire protection.