Council authorizes estimated $1.8 million for new platform ladder truck; staff to return with contract

The Meridian City Council on Aug. 1 authorized an estimated $1,800,000 expenditure to procure a platform ladder fire truck for Station 1 and directed staff to return with a contract for formal award. Fire department leaders said the truck is intended to replace an apparatus that will be out of service in 2027 and to support responses near the new data center.

Council action came after the fire chief explained the department’s plan to move the current Engine 1 to the southside station to extend its service life and to buy a larger ladder truck for Station 1. The chief told the council the vendor expects a roughly two-year build time.

The city described the vote as authorization to proceed toward a contract; the chief said staff will seek a vendor using state contract pricing and return to the council with a formal purchase contract for approval. Council members emphasized the size of the estimated cost and said they wanted the community kept informed.

Discussion focused on timing and logistics: moving an existing truck to Station 8, replacing the Station 1 vehicle with a newer ladder truck, and ensuring the apparatus fits the city’s operational needs. The chief said officials hope the final price will come in under the $1.8 million estimate but could not guarantee that.

The council recorded the authorization and the chief said purchasing and build timelines mean the council will see a formal contract and budget details before final payment or delivery.

The item was introduced during routine agenda discussion and was carried forward for formal contract approval at a later meeting.