Chief Kenny (presenting for the Fire Department) told the Capital Improvement Advisory Committee on June 7 that his department has four apparatus projects in its CIP plan, including replacement of an aging forestry/brush truck (1999 model) and a heavy 10‑wheel truck. He said vehicle lead times are long—manufacturers are currently quoting roughly 24–30 months—and prices have risen substantially. The department’s 1999 forestry vehicle has drivetrain issues and mounting maintenance needs; the chief said repowering or transmission replacement is not cost-effective.

Kenny described a strategy to standardize on a modern pickup/chassis platform with skid-tank and apparatus boxes for wildfire/brush response, with improved 4‑wheel‑drive diesel power and crew‑cab capability to carry more personnel when needed. He said a modern replacement would lower operational complexity (automatic transmissions, common parts) and reduce training/time costs associated with older standard-transmission vehicles.

On larger apparatus, Kenny said the historical escalation in ladder and engine prices is severe: neighboring towns’ ladder trucks recently cost around $1.9–$2.2 million, and the department’s own engine orders have seen multi‑hundred‑thousand‑dollar escalations if ordered today. He told the committee the department prefers to keep replacement schedules on the CIP to preserve readiness and avoid deferred maintenance risks.

Department leaders also urged the committee to consider restoring a department-specific revolving fund for apparatus maintenance and smaller purchases. They said a previous administration removed revolving capital accounts and returned the funds to reduce taxes; the chief argued a steady, dedicated fund would reduce pressure on the operating budget and reduce long‑term costs.

Ending: The committee heard the apparatus priorities and cost trends; members asked the fire department to provide final replacement specifications, lifecycle-cost comparisons, and an updated plan for disposal or training use of retired units. The committee will consider equipment timing and whether to recommend return of a revolving fund as part of capital planning.