Marshfield approves DNR grant acceptance and $22,007 equipment purchase for fire department UTV skid unit

The Marshfield Common Council on Oct. 14 approved acceptance of a $5,000 grant from the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources and authorized budget transfers totaling $22,007.32 to purchase a skid unit that will be mounted on a utility terrain vehicle (UTV) for wildland firefighting and patient transport.

Fire Chief Everett Mueller described a phased plan: the department will build the skid (the portable equipment pack) first so it can be used on a temporary pallet while staff pursues procurement of a UTV in a later phase. Mueller said the total project cost was estimated at $37,031; the department secured $14,421 in community donations and expects the $5,000 DNR grant to cover a defined portion of the build. Remaining local shares will come from the department’s budgets and by seeking additional community or CIP funding in 2027.

Mueller listed local donations he said had been secured: Ford Bank ($10,000), Enbridge (about $2,500), S & R Truck ($3,000), Simplicity Credit Union ($250), State Farm Insurance ($1,000), Marshfield Area Community Foundation ($2,906) and a $15 contribution. Council discussion focused on operational use: Alderman Tompkins asked whether the skid and UTV would be used to reach patients in wooded or swamp areas and how units would be transported. Chief Mueller said the skid will initially be transported on a pallet; once the UTV is procured the units will be combined and can operate with emergency lights and siren to travel city streets and trails.

Council approved the resolution to accept the $5,000 DNR Forestry Fire Protection grant and to transfer funds and expend $22,007.32 to purchase the skid unit. The motion was moved by Alderman Tompkins and seconded by Alderman O'Reilly; the mayor announced the motion passed.