PROVINCETOWN — Fire Chief Michael Trovato says this town needs its own emergency medical service to replace the Lower Cape Ambulance (LCA) Association, the nonprofit that has provided backup service to Provincetown and Truro since 1937.

When the chief argued that the VFW land should be reserved for a new police and fire station at the recent special town meeting, the need for its own larger rescue squad was one reason.

Trovato, who did not return calls from the Independent, has offered no explanation to the public, the select board, or LCA staff for his call for a town-run emergency service. The chief has requested $50,000 for a building needs analysis for a new annex for the fire station to provide room for an expanded rescue squad.