Turlock approves $2.37 million purchase of new ladder truck; staffing and lead times discussed

The council approved purchase of a Pierce 107‑foot tractor‑drawn aerial apparatus (a 'quint' / tiller configuration) to replace aging Truck 32. The recommended prepayment option totaled $2,368,699 and staff said sufficient funding exists in the Fire Department vehicle replacement fund (Fund 506).

The fire chief explained the operational advantages of a tractor‑drawn aerial (improved turning radius and deployment flexibility) and said the replacement is consistent with the City Gate master plan and would support multi‑story rescue and suppression. He noted national lead times for ladder apparatus of 44–47 months, with manufacturer goals to reduce turnaround to about 18 months in coming years.

Council members and the public questioned staffing implications; the chief said the minimum recommended staffing for a truck company is three personnel (best practice four) and that the department currently cross‑staffs the existing truck out of Station 32. The chief estimated useful life for the ladder apparatus could be up to 15 years. Several residents and former employees urged approval, citing safety and future development needs.

The motion to purchase passed by roll call 5–0. Staff said the prepayment option produces a roughly 13.4% savings compared with payment upon delivery and that the finance director had reviewed and approved the plan.

Next steps: city will finalize procurement, arrange prepayment, and plan for staffing and deployment as the apparatus approaches delivery.