Albany commission rescinds small ARFF order, approves purchase of two larger Oshkosh aircraft fire trucks

The Albany City Commission voted Nov. 25 to cancel a previously ordered smaller aircraft rescue and firefighting (ARFF) truck and instead authorize purchase of two larger Oshkosh Stryker ARFF vehicles to match the city's existing fleet.

Staff explained the change resulted from shifting Federal Aviation Administration guidance. "We entered into this contract to buy an ARFF truck … they would not allow us to buy the same size that we currently have, and we bought the smaller truck. And then later on, after further discussions with FAA, they changed their mind," said Mr. Bednar, the presenting staff member. He told commissioners the larger trucks are needed because "we really need that water capacity and that foam capacity."

The two Stryker units are priced at $1,635,000 apiece, for a total purchase price of $3,270,000. According to staff, the first unit will be grant-funded through the FAA at about 95% coverage; the city’s share on that unit is estimated at $81,750. Delivery is estimated at roughly 20 months after order placement.

Commissioners voted to rescind the smaller-truck order and proceed with the larger replacements. Staff said there were no cancellation penalties because the department is ordering a brush truck from the same vendor and the net price differences remove penalties.

The move will replace older airport firefighting units (one reported at 28 years old and another at 15) and, staff said, align capacity with airport safety needs. The commission asked staff to clarify organizational responsibility for airport firefighters and to provide follow-up information on funding and departmental structure.

Next steps: staff will finalize procurement details and return required documentation; expected delivery and payment timing will follow the vendor schedule and grant disbursements.