Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Public Safety topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Decatur approves electric fire pumper purchase, cites health and emissions benefits
Summary
The Decatur City Commission approved purchase of an electric fire pumper from Pierce Manufacturing for up to $2,598,440 after staff concluded Pierce could deliver in 18 months; staff cited reduced diesel exhaust exposure for firefighters, lower greenhouse-gas emissions, and a plan to install high‑power charging at Fire Station 2.
The Decatur City Commission on April 21 voted to purchase an electric fire pumper from Pierce Manufacturing in an amount not to exceed $2,598,440 to replace a 2013 Sutphin pumper.
Chief Washington told commissioners that the recommendation advances the city’s Clean Energy Plan and will reduce greenhouse‑gas emissions and firefighters’ exposure to diesel exhaust. Two electric apparatus bids were received in December: Pierce at $2,598,440 and FireLine E1 at $2,344,786. Staff chose Pierce mainly on the projected production and delivery timeline (Pierce: 18 months; FireLine: 35 months), a factor the department said would avoid long delays to scheduled fleet replacement.
Chief Washington said the pumper operates primarily from a battery pack that powers the drivetrain and pump, with a diesel engine available as a backup or to charge the battery when required. Staff said batteries are warrantied (the presentation noted a warranty around 12 years) and that battery degradation is expected over time; they also noted second‑life uses and falling replacement costs are likely in the future.
The fire department estimated the outgoing 2013 pumper used roughly 1,600 gallons of diesel annually; staff said a DC fast charger (cost estimate about $65,000) will be installed at Fire Station 2 with separate metering to take advantage of off‑peak electric rates and Georgia Power make‑ready incentives.
Commissioners asked about lifecycle costs, battery warranties and charging infrastructure; staff said a fuller cost‑benefit analysis will be completed as the vehicle build proceeds but emphasized health and emissions benefits alongside operational considerations. The commission voted in favor of the purchase.
