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Fire chief says in-stock pumper will replace delayed order, keeping purchase under budget
Summary
Facing multi-year delays for a custom pumper ordered in 2023, the fire chief told committees the department found a 2026 in‑stock pumper that fits needs and will come in under budget; staff outlined how a change-order approach avoids penalties and how lease amortization and savings could fund other capital needs.
Chief Nick Makin briefed council committees on repeated delays for a pumper ordered from KME Corporation in September 2023, and described an alternative: procuring a 2026 in‑stock pumper through the Rev Group that would meet operational needs and arrive much sooner.
“It's a brand new truck. It's a 2026. It's just come off the line and ... it will more than fit our needs,” Chief Makin said, adding that the stock truck would come in under the originally budgeted amount. He told the committee the department expects delivery potentially by the end of September and that the change-order approach avoids cancellation penalties.
Administrator Shannon Herman and finance staff explained the vehicle was financed via a capital/master lease and has an 18‑month spend period; she said financing can be adjusted so any savings could be reallocated to other capital purchases with appropriate amortization schedules and council approval.
Committee members thanked staff for finding a timely alternative and noted the national backlog of fire apparatus; no formal council adoption was recorded — the matter was discussed and staff said they will bring recommended payment/amortization adjustments to future council meetings if they proceed.
