By CRISTINE MEIXNER

Express Editor

WELLS - The Town of Wells will start billing for ambulance services Jan. 1.

The Wells Town Board has authorized a contract with Enhanced Management Services Inc., Danville, Pa., which provides accounts receivable management services for ambulance and emergency medical service organizations.

Patients, insurance carriers, governmental agencies, employers and others will be billed if their insurance covers ambulance services.

The one-year contract is contingent upon the approval of the attorney for the town and the town’s insurance carrier.

Supervisor Brian Towers said there is no downside to the town. Enhanced Management Services receives a percentage of collections and only those who have benefits that cover ambulance service will be requested to reimburse the corps for the service.

The contract will be reviewed year to year.

Towers said the town needs the revenue if it is going to replace the ambulance every seven to 10 years.

In other business, work has started on the town’s 2013 budget.

Electrical problems on the Community Hall grounds that occurred during Old Home Days will be examined. Councilman Robert Wright said wires and outlets need to be replaced; a panel upgrade may also be necessary.

The Wells Town Board will next meet Monday, Sept. 10, starting at 7 p.m. at the meal site.

Editor’s Note: This article is based on draft minutes of the Wells Town Board meeting of Aug. 13, 2012 as provided by Town Clerk Mari Wilson.