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East Greenwich awards bids to replace hoses, buy command SUV after federal grant approval
Summary
Council approved purchase of a new command vehicle and emergency equipment installation and accepted federal AFG funding to replace fire hoses and nozzles; awards funded by an AFG grant, bond proceeds and operating funds.
The East Greenwich Town Council voted to award purchase and equipment installation contracts for a new fire command vehicle and approved acceptance of a federal Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) to replace hoses, nozzles and appliances.
The council approved a bid to Colonial Municipal Group for a 2025 Chevrolet Tahoe command vehicle at $57,000 and authorized Island Tech Services to install emergency equipment in the vehicle at $13,000. The council separately awarded a contract to Fire Tech and Safety of Massachusetts to supply hoses, nozzles and related appliances in an amount not to exceed $192,285. All votes carried 3–0.
Why it matters: The department said much of its hose and nozzle stock had deteriorated and that replacement will increase reliability of frontline and reserve apparatus. The AFG grant covers the bulk of the equipment cost; town and department match dollars are included in the financing plan.
Details and funding: Fire Chief Perry told the council the AFG award will cover most of the roughly $192,000 purchase, with a small town match (chief confirmed FEMA/American Rescue Plan and AFG compliance checks were completed). The command vehicle and installation will be funded from a 2019 capital improvement bond and current‑year operating funds. The chief said a single 100‑foot section of large‑diameter hose costs about $700 and that the new equipment will replace worn items on all frontline and reserve apparatus.
Council action: The council voted 3–0 to award the vehicle purchase and installation contracts and to approve the hoses/nozzles purchase. Town staff confirmed FEMA had approved the grant terms before the vote.
Ending: Chief Perry said the department expects to take delivery and begin installations following contract execution and standard procurement timelines.
