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Blue Rock update: $2.88 million raised for new firehouse; engine replacements paused pending grants
Summary
Officials reported Blue Rock Fire Company answered 55 calls in April, has raised about $2.88 million toward a new firehouse, and is delaying purchases of two demo engine units (priced $775,000 and $930,000) until grant outcomes are known; the council heard heavy repair costs on older units.
A borough speaker reported that Blue Rock Fire Company handled 55 calls in April — 24 in Manor Township, 17 in Millersville and the remainder outside the district — and that the department has raised about $2.88 million from more than 500 business and individual donations for a proposed new firehouse.
The report itemized department needs and equipment status: the commission follows a roughly 30-year vehicle replacement schedule and currently lists 33 vehicles in its fleet. Two engines are under consideration for replacement: one based at West Lancaster, with over $114,000 in repairs since 2014, and another at the Millersville station with over $159,000 in repairs since 2014. The speaker said the commission prefers to let older vehicles be sold for resale value to smaller companies and use proceeds toward replacements.
Two demo units presented by a vendor were described by price and availability: one priced at $775,000 (available January 2027) and a second priced at $930,000 (available mid-2027). The more expensive unit includes an engine capable of burning gasoline, diesel or natural gas and carries additional firefighting equipment. The commission placed purchasing decisions on hold to await resolution of pending grant applications and decisions about new firehouse funding.
Officials emphasized the appeal of resale value for retiring equipment and noted the department had paid cash for two recently acquired vehicles that cost substantially less than the demo units presented. A correction was made during discussion clarifying the vendor's delivery dates were in 2027, not 2017.
What happens next: The borough will wait for state- or grant-related funding outcomes before committing to expensive purchases; the fire-commission report will return to the council as funding developments occur.
