Peoria council approves plan to buy two fire apparatus in 2028 for up to $2.4 million

The Peoria City Council approved a plan to purchase two fire apparatus from Pierce Manufacturing through McQueen Equipment in 2028 for an amount not to exceed $2,400,000.

Council discussion centered on whether to prepay the purchase to capture a 7.5 percent discount. Council Member Cyr asked about the prepayment option and cash-management implications; staff said the city will not prepay. "We're not considering that option in discussion with the finance director Grama and the city manager," a staff member said. Council members noted the city's cash is earning 4–5 percent annually and preferred retaining funds until the payment is due and budgeting in the 2027 process.

Fire leadership described the replacement schedule. Chief Sullberger said two engine companies will reach the 20-year mark by 2028 and that aging apparatus present increasing repair difficulties. "By the time we get to 2028, we'll have 2 engine companies that are at the 20 year mark, and so they'll be rotated out at 20 years," he said, noting the department must balance refurbishment versus new purchases.

Council Member Grama asked whether the machines being replaced were of similar vintage; staff confirmed the replacements align with the department's fleet-management plan. The council moved and seconded the item and voted to approve the purchase plan unanimously.

Ending: The purchase authorization commits the city to include the $2.4 million in the 2028 capital-improvement program; staff will continue fleet-management planning to balance refurbishment and new procurement.