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Milroy approves equipment purchases, opens bids to sell older pumper; relief association funds used for camera
Summary
Across multiple meetings the council authorized sale of an ’85 pumper, accepted a $4,000 bid, approved purchase of a used truck for $7,500 and approved fire equipment purchases (thermal imaging camera) funded by the Milroy Relief Association.
Milroy’s city council repeatedly addressed fire department equipment and funding needs through 2023. Fire Chief Matt Krueger reported multiple items to the council: the department listed the 1985 pumper for sale and solicited bids; at the Feb. 27 meeting the council accepted the high bid of $4,000 from Mike Debbaut, with proceeds deposited into the Truck Fund savings account. Krueger also reported the department bought a used truck from Watson Fire Department for $7,500.
The council approved several smaller purchases: decals for four trucks ($620), four handheld radio batteries ($100 each), and a thermal imaging camera (quote accepted from Dinges Fire, $7,065). Council minutes show the thermal camera funds would come from the Milroy Relief Association; copies of quotes were to be submitted to the clerk for the record.
The department pursued grants and mutual aid agreements as part of equipment planning. Minutes across multiple meetings note the council approved the SW Mutual Aid Agreement, that the department would reapply for a DNR grant for new lockers, and that the department has applied for FEMA grant opportunities to replace turnout gear that had aged out. The recorded pump test on the 2007 pumper passed and the department scheduled equipment inspections and training events with neighboring townships.
Why it matters: Fire apparatus and protective gear are core public‑safety resources. Sales and purchases change local capability and reserve funding; grant applications and mutual‑aid agreements shape risk sharing with neighboring jurisdictions.
What’s next: The council instructed staff to file quotes and continue routine procurement steps. The fire chief and council noted the department would pursue grant funding for turnout gear replacement and planned outreach to township officials for tours and coordination.
