Maricopa council approves emergency purchase of ladder truck after crash; delivery expected in September

The Maricopa City Council on Jan. 20 approved a staff request to pursue the purchase of a ladder truck after a November crash damaged Ladder 574.

Chief described the incident and the department’s response: "Earlier in November, we had a very unfortunate incident where a suspected drunk driver crossed over the median and struck our ladder truck, ladder 5 74," the chief told the council. Two firefighters were transported to the hospital, treated and released with minor injuries, the chief said, and the department now has only one ladder truck in service.

Staff reported that a fire department in Texas backed out of a purchase and that a vendor notified Maricopa of an available truck. Because new ladder trucks typically have long lead times and high prices, the city described this as a time‑sensitive opportunity: council was told the vehicle could be delivered in about nine months rather than the usual roughly three years.

Council members pressed staff on timing and reimbursement. The city manager said letters of intent can be signed and that the binding purchase would be ratified by the council; legal staff are working on insurance and reimbursement options. "We don't spend a dollar until those trucks are actually delivered," the city manager said, and staff will evaluate financing options when delivery occurs.

Council member Noor moved to approve the purchase; the motion was seconded and carried by voice vote.

What’s next: staff will pursue purchase paperwork, continue insurance and reimbursement work, and return as needed for financing or final contract ratification.