Croton Voters Approve EMS Volunteer Length of Service Award Program

Voters have overwhelmingly supported the establishment of a Length of Service Award Program (LOSAP) for volunteer members of Croton Emergency Medical Services (CEMS) in the 2026 General Election. With 88% of votes counted thus far in favor of the measure, the referendum is expected to pass. Upon final confirmation of the results, the program will take effect retroactively to January 1, 2026. The program recognizes the significant contributions of Croton’s volunteer EMS members by providing a retirement benefit based on their years of active service. A similar program was established in 2003 for members of the Croton Volunteer Fire Department and expanded in 2023. Now, with voter approval, the LOSAP benefit will now be extended to eligible EMS volunteers. In addition to recognizing current volunteers, the program is intended to strengthen the Village’s ability to recruit and retain EMS members, helping ensure the continued availability of volunteer emergency medical services. The Board of Trustees voted unanimously in November 2025 to authorize a public referendum to establish an EMS LOSAP to recruit and retain volunteer EMS riding members. Volunteers earning annual service credits through training, meetings, and emergency calls will receive a lifetime benefit starting at age 60, equal to $30 per month for each credit year (up to 40 years). Disability and death protections are included. The village’s estimated 2026 program cost is capped at $35,000 (about $2,700 per active volunteer and roughly 0.001% of the municipal budget) including a $2,750 administrative fee. “We are incredibly grateful to Croton voters for recognizing the importance of our volunteer EMS members. This program is an important investment in the future of our organization. It not only recognizes the dedication of our current members but also provides an additional incentive for new volunteers to join our ranks and serve the community,” said Phil Dinkler , Department Head for Croton-on-Hudson EMS. The Village of Croton-on-Hudson extends its appreciation to the community for supporting its volunteer first responders and helping ensure the long-term strength and sustainability of emergency medical services. “Our volunteer EMTs and first responders give countless hours to protect Croton, meeting the challenge of steadily rising call volumes since the COVID-19 pandemic with remarkable devotion. Alongside our new EMS headquarters at 30 Wayne Street, this program shows that our village stands behind its first responders. By passing LOSAP, our community is recommitting itself to supporting the people who to support us,” said Brian Pugh , Mayor of Croton-on-Hudson.