Rising Gas Prices Strain Bangor-Area First Responders, But Mission Remains Unchanged

BANGOR, Maine – As fuel costs surge across the country, public safety agencies in the Bangor area are feeling the financial pressure—particularly those covering vast rural territories and long-distance emergency routes. Despite the strain, first responders say their commitment to answering calls will not waver.

Penobscot County Sheriff Troy Morton noted that with over 3,900 square miles in the county alone, travel and fuel costs have become a significant issue. The rising prices are most noticeable during long commutes to rural communities and routine inmate transports, adding pressure to the department’s budget.

“It is things that we have to manage,” Sheriff Morton said. “We actually put some notices out to our deputies to remind them that vehicles are shut off when they can be shut off. It impacts our community, impacts our financial decisions.”

Across the river in Brewer, Fire Chief Eric Tortoloti said that while higher fuel prices have not yet severely impacted daily operations, his department is prepared to cut costs in other areas to offset the increase.

“Our plan is to maintain our mission and status as it is,” Chief Tortoloti said. “We’re going to respond as needed, and we’re going to continue to support our mutual aid partners.”

Emergency medical services with Northern Light Health echoed a similar stance. A spokesperson for the agency explained that they manage costs by keeping up with repairs and reducing overtime, but stressed that fuel is a non-negotiable expense.

“We try to manage our costs by keeping up on repairs, keeping our overtime down, but fuel costs—like I said, it’s just we have to have it and we’re going to go, whatever the cost is,” the spokesperson said.

As gas prices continue to fluctuate, first responders across the region remain firm in their duty. “The cost of fuel impacts us all, but in our line of work, it is important that we respond to calls,” Sheriff Morton added. “Bottom line is we’re an emergency response service, and if there’s a need for help, we’re going to go—serving Mainers no matter the cost.”