Council tables decision on $265,996.93 Type 3 fire engine after budget review request

Weed City Council on an evening agenda discussed awarding a $265,996.93 bid to Cascade Fire Equipment to build a Type 3 fire apparatus but ultimately tabled the award pending further budget review.

Fire Chief (speaker 7) told the council the city “desperately need[s] this Type 3,” describing recent mutual‑aid deployments and that the engine build will take roughly 18 months. He said the city has applied for an $80,000 grant to fund the pump and water tank and that proceeds from recent equipment sales would partially offset cost.

Finance Director Jill (speaker 11) told council she did not have final budget numbers and recommended forming a budget committee to confirm which capital‑outlay funds remain available. “I want to go over Steve’s numbers and look at our expenses so we can say with certainty that we are in compliance with the state,” Jill said.

Council members debated timing and the risk of delaying the build; one member noted the manufacturer’s quote is valid only through the end of September. Mayor Pro Tem Palpini moved to table the item until after the ad hoc budget committee reviews funding; Council member Bozzone seconded. The motion to table carried by voice vote; at least one member voiced opposition during the roll call.

Next steps: council directed staff and the proposed ad hoc budget committee to review the capital account, confirm whether grant awards are likely, and return with firm numbers before the award is finalized.