El Centro approves up to $1.4 million from Measure P to replace frontline fire engine
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Summary
The council unanimously authorized up to $1.4 million from Measure P to fund purchase and outfitting of a Type 1 fire engine to replace one lost in 2023; staff will return with a purchase agreement and timeline for delivery.
The El Centro City Council unanimously approved an authorization to allocate up to $1,400,000 from Measure P to replace a Type 1 fire engine that the department lost in 2023.
Fire Chief Joseph Bonar told the council the department has maintained service by rotating existing frontline apparatus and that operating with one fewer engine increases strain and reduces redundancy during high‑demand incidents. Bonar estimated the apparatus purchase price in the $1.1–$1.2 million range with an additional $200,000–$300,000 required to outfit the vehicle with contemporary equipment.
Chief Bonar said the department is evaluating proposals for stock units with limited customization to shorten lead times; delivery windows identified in proposals range to the first or second quarter of the coming year. He noted national supply issues and long lead times for custom builds and said replacing the lost engine would allow the department to return an older engine to reserve status.
Council members asked about the expected service life of fire apparatus and cost breakdown. Bonar referenced National Fire Protection Association guidance recommending 10–12 years in frontline service and retirement by 20 years. The council moved to approve the funding authorization; the motion passed 5–0. Staff will return with a purchase agreement and further procurement details.
