Millville leaders describe ambulance and fire apparatus shortages; Bridgeton supplies a loaned unit

City public‑safety officials and commissioners reported equipment shortages in Millville’s fire and EMS fleet and described short‑term mutual‑aid arrangements.

Commissioner Hewitt outlined the operational status: the department normally operates a four‑ambulance fleet; one vehicle was in for major repairs requiring cab removal, and another developed a transmission problem, leaving the city with two ambulances available at times. The fire apparatus fleet also had units out of service for heat damage and engine problems; the commissioner said one ladder was out after heat damage and two engines were sidelined for motor work, leaving only one engine and one ladder in service at the station.

The fire chief and commissioners said a refurbished ambulance purchase is on order but warned that building and delivering apparatus take time. To maintain service the city arranged a short‑term loan of reserve apparatus from the City of Bridgeton; the borrowed apparatus will still be staffed by Millville personnel, the commission said. Officials stressed that these gaps highlight the need for increased capital funding for apparatus replacement and for additional staffing in police and fire.

Commissioners asked staff to pursue funding and lease options and to report back on procurement timelines. The administration said it will seek leasing arrangements where feasible and will include fire and EMS replacements in future capital plans. Commissioners reiterated public safety as a budgeting priority in the context of the introduced budget discussion.