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Board approves replacement of aging fire apparatus after multi‑department review
Summary
Johnston County Fire Commission recommended replacing two engines and six tankers (30+ years old); the Board approved the apparatus‑replacement recommendation after presentations on departmental needs, equipment rotation and potential bulk‑purchase discounts.
Johnston County’s Fire Commission presented an apparatus‑replacement recommendation Jan. 20 and the Board of Commissioners approved it by voice vote.
Fire Commission chair Chris Ellenson and Fire Marshal Travis Johnson described an apparatus‑replacement plan focused on apparatus 30 years or older and said departments were consulted to match operational needs and financial capacity. Fire staff and chiefs explained they identified two engines and six tankers as highest‑priority replacements, and described moving contracted apparatus between departments to accelerate replacement schedules and reduce costs.
Chief Evans and other presenters said the plan was designed to reduce repair burdens and extend service life through targeted purchases and inter‑department collaboration. Commissioners asked whether older apparatus would be sold, donated or surplussed; staff said the county would remove those units from the county system and consider surplus or donation options.
The board moved, seconded and approved the recommendation on a voice vote. Commissioners praised the inter‑departmental collaboration and the Fire Commission’s approach to bulk purchasing and cost savings.
What’s next: Staff will proceed with procurement steps consistent with the adopted apparatus‑replacement plan and return with any contract details or bids to the board as required.
