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Avon moves forward on fire department outreach and authorizes $882,637 tanker purchase
Summary
Council advanced public outreach on a proposed AVFD facilities project and authorized a $882,637 purchase agreement for a replacement tanker, subject to FY 2026/2027 budget funding; AVFD warned of potential 5% price escalation if delayed.
The Avon Town Council discussed public outreach for a proposed Avon Volunteer Fire Department (AVFD) facilities plan and authorized the purchase of a replacement tanker apparatus for $882,637, contingent on funding in the adopted FY 2026/2027 budget.
Assistant Chief Joe Speich and AVFD Building Committee Chair Jim Speich urged a robust public engagement schedule for the facilities project; Jim Speich asked that the newsletter and survey be timed to allow in-person outreach and open houses so residents understand the background and rationale. Jim Speich emphasized the committee’s intent to use multiple channels, including social media and an AVFD video link.
On the tanker purchase, Assistant Chief Joe Speich said the vehicle "could be in Town by the end of 2026," and staff noted that delaying the purchase could trigger an estimated 5% escalation (about $44,000) and that model-year cost increases for 2027 could be higher due to new EPA standards. The Purchase & Sale Agreement with U.S. Fire Pump Company was authorized by the council, with language allowing termination if funding is not available when the FY 2026/2027 budget is adopted.
Council members recommended clearer square-footage and tax-impact details in the facilities newsletter, suggested more photographs to show space constraints, and discussed survey format options (online QR code, printed surveys, and a prepaid mail option) to maximize resident input. Council asked staff to revise the newsletter and return with changes in May.
