Jefferson Select Board to ask voters to authorize surplus funds for new fire truck

Jefferson Fire and Rescue representatives Darin Walker and Greg Johnston told the Select Board on Aug. 12 that the department needs a smaller replacement fire truck to reach camp roads and because the existing vehicle has severe wire erosion and a pump that would not pass inspection.

The truck under consideration is priced at $373,710; the supplier will raise the price by $56,000 on Jan. 1, 2025. The town currently has $276,963 available for the purchase; the remaining balance would come from the town’s Surplus account if voters approve. The Select Board voted 2-0 to write an article to appear on the Nov. 5, 2024 ballot asking voters to authorize the transfer from Surplus. The motion included a proviso that if the old truck is sold before the purchase is completed, proceeds will be returned to Surplus.

Board members framed the measure as a replacement driven by equipment deterioration and inspection concerns. The motion did not specify financing terms beyond use of Surplus funds; no bond or borrowing was discussed in the meeting minutes.

Next steps: the Select Board will place the authorization question on the Nov. 5 ballot. If voters approve, town officials will proceed with the purchase subject to the timing and any sale of the old truck.