Rep Thompson Advocates Funding For Flat Rock Fire Department's New Truck

In a recent meeting of the Michigan Legislature's Appropriations Committee, representatives gathered to discuss critical funding needs for the Flat Rock Fire Department. The focus was on the urgent requirement for a new fire truck, as the current vehicle has reached a concerning age of 35 years, significantly exceeding its recommended frontline service life.

Advocating for this funding, a representative from State Representative Jamie Thompson's office highlighted the department's commitment to excellence and the challenges posed by rising operational costs. The existing fire truck, which dates back to 1990, is not only outdated but also poses a risk to public safety. The representative noted that the department receives approximately 15 emergency calls each month that necessitate the use of the fire truck. With the current vehicle's reliability in question, the potential for failure during a critical incident could endanger both residents and firefighters.

Flat Rock Fire Chief Derek Wilson, who joined the discussion, emphasized the importance of upgrading the fleet to enhance operational efficiency. He outlined plans to replace the aging fire engine with a multi-functional vehicle capable of handling various emergencies, including medical responses and vehicle extrications. Chief Wilson pointed out that the department's reliance on a 35-year-old truck could lead to significant delays in response times and increased risks during emergencies.

The estimated cost to replace the fire truck is approximately $750,000, a substantial investment that also encompasses other necessary equipment like ambulances and firefighting gear. Chief Wilson expressed concern that without immediate funding, the department could face a four to five-year wait for a new engine, during which time over 800 emergency calls could occur, further straining resources and increasing risks.

The discussions at this meeting underscore the critical need for timely investment in public safety infrastructure. As the Flat Rock Fire Department continues to serve its community, the call for funding reflects broader challenges faced by fire departments across the state, where aging equipment and rising costs threaten the safety and effectiveness of emergency services. The committee's response to this request will be pivotal in determining the future capabilities of the Flat Rock Fire Department and its ability to protect the community effectively.