Mamaroneck board authorizes start of bond process and contingent contract for new Seagrave pumper

The Town of Mamaroneck on Sept. 3 authorized the first formal steps to buy a new combination rescue/pumper for the fire department and approved a contingent contract with Seagrave Fire Apparatus LLC.

Chief Alexander Rapp told the board the department needed to act now because delivery of a new apparatus could take up to four years and delaying would increase costs. “By the time the new rescue arrives, our current Rescue 6 will be 20 years old, well beyond its expected frontline service,” Rapp said, urging the board to approve a bond resolution to begin the purchase process.

Board members voiced support for the plan and the chief’s cost-saving approach. One member said the district’s purchase would reduce the fleet by one vehicle and lower long-term maintenance expense. Finance staff noted the bond authorization request includes an estimated bonding cost of about $34,000 to cover issuance expenses.

The board then approved a resolution authorizing the town administrator to execute a contract with Seagrave of Clinton, Wisconsin, to supply one Seagrave TB 500 pumper for $1,689,547, contingent on voter approval of the bond at referendum. The contract authorization was adopted by roll call.

Officials said the purchase is intended to replace Rescue 6 and Engine 51 with a single modern combination unit; the town plans to keep Engine 51 as a temporary spare until the new apparatus arrives. Staff told the board they are not borrowing immediately but are authorizing the process now so they can lock in pricing and financing terms.

The board also approved related budget adjustments discussed later in the meeting to add $200,000 to the existing bonding line for the rescue vehicle to reflect updated estimates and timing.

The contract and bond authorization are subject to the board’s final financing steps and must be approved by voters at the required public referendum before funds are issued.