TRS OFFICAL STATEMENT
On the evening of August 11, 2025, at approximately 5:15 PM, Tabernacle Rescue Squad (TRS) was informed by Tabernacle Township of a 90-day termination agreement—just over an hour before a Special Township Meeting scheduled for 6:30 PM that same evening. This followed a similar notice issued by Shamong Township on August 5, 2025, which was provided without any prior communication or opportunity for discussion.
We, like many of our residents, have many questions. Both townships have chosen to conduct much of the formal planning and discussions related to EMS services behind closed doors, without input from Tabernacle Rescue Squad or any of the Tabernacle Emergency Service Agencies. The decisions appear to have been made by committees composed of individuals not active in the emergency services field, which leaves TRS—like many of you—eager for more information and clarity in the coming days.
It is worth noting that during the same meeting in which Shamong Township delivered its notice, township officials publicly thanked TRS for our service and praised our response to the recent forest fire incident. This acknowledgment came even as our future role in public safety was being curtailed.
TRS declines to comment on how the townships went about this process. However, we are committed to dispel any false information that may be circulating. It is true that our organization missed a number of calls—a fact we have been completely transparent about with both municipalities. At no point did TRS withhold information. In fact, we approached the townships proactively, expressing concern over our ability to respond consistently and asking for assistance to ensure ongoing and uninterrupted EMS coverage.
TRS has been one of the last remaining volunteer EMS agencies in Burlington County, and we have worked diligently to transition to a sustainable staffing model. Moving from an all-volunteer operation to a paid staff model is a significant shift that does not happen overnight.
At this time, TRS is carefully evaluating the situation, speaking with legal counsel, and determining the best course of action. In the meantime, we remain honored to serve the residents and visitors of Shamong and Tabernacle Townships for the remaining 87 days of our current agreements.
We respectfully encourage all residents to reach out to your elected committee members with your questions and concerns. We also invite you to attend the upcoming township meeting on August 25, 2025, to ensure your voices are heard. Your comments and support have been incredibly uplifting for our membership and serve as a powerful reminder of what it means to be an organization made up of neighbors helping neighbors.
We remain committed to professionalism, transparency, and the well-being of the communities we’ve proudly served for decades. Further updates will be provided as appropriate.