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Newberry touts new fire apparatus and ALS capability; commissioners say sheriff contract runs through 2025
Summary
Officials displayed a new Quint and brush truck, announced Advanced Life Support on engine crews and said a contract with Sheriff Chad Scott is in place through 2025; city leaders said they plan to seek a new county contract after that term.
City officials highlighted recent investments in public safety equipment and emergency services and discussed the city’s contract with the Alachua County Sheriff’s Office.
Commissioner Mark Clark said the city had “just signed a new contract with sheriff Chad Scott, and it's all implemented. That contract will be going through 2025. After that contract's up, we intend to seek a new contract with the county.” Clark framed the agreement as part of ongoing public-safety partnerships.
Fire department staff showcased new apparatus and explained operational upgrades. Paramedic-firefighter David Voigt described a change to Advanced Life Support: “Recently, we just went to what's called Advanced Life Support or ALS. What it means is we have a paramedic on every truck. Even if the ambulance is gone, there's still a paramedic coming to you.”
City presenters described a new Quint and a new brush truck for rural and rough-road response. Officials said the brush truck includes a ride-along compartment and equipment to attack brush fires while in transit. A staff presenter noted annual call volume and the department’s aim to continue increasing presence and community engagement.
No formal vote was recorded during the address; the commission described the sheriff contract as signed and implemented through 2025 and as subject to renegotiation or renewal with the county once that term ends.
