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Deep River fire board reviews FY 2026–27 budget and warns of three-year lead time for new apparatus
Summary
The Deep River Board of Fire Commissioners reviewed the FY 2026–27 operating and capital budgets, discussed apparatus replacement timing based on an outside Needs Assessment (noting a three-year lead time), approved routine minutes and tabled acceptance of the department's elected officers until the next meeting.
The Deep River Board of Fire Commissioners on Feb. 2 reviewed the town’s FY 2026–27 operating and capital requests and discussed the timetable for replacing fire apparatus, board leaders said.
Chairperson David Berardis opened the regular meeting at 7:05 p.m. and recorded attendance. Member Gary Elliott moved to approve the minutes from the Jan. 5, 2026 meeting; Fire Chief Tim Lee seconded and the motion was approved unanimously.
Chief Tim Lee reported the department focused on ice-rescue training over the past month and noted the department purchased a rescue sled last year to support those exercises. During the meeting the department also presented its slate of 2026 officers (Chief Tim Lee; Deputy Chief Adam Kerop; Assistant Chiefs Barry Luff and John Ely; Secretary Christine Nowak; Treasurer John R. Kollmer Sr.; Chief Engineer Tom Lee; Trustee Rich Sypher). The board recorded a motion to accept the slate but tabled that motion until the next regular meeting; the minutes do not list who moved or seconded the tabling.
At the Capital Expenditure discussion, Chief Engineer Tom Lee said he had contacted Gowans about repairs to the ladder truck and that the department will delay other truck repairs until the ladder truck is returned to service. The board reviewed the apparatus-replacement schedule, which it said is based on a Needs Assessment prepared by an outside contractor. Members noted replacement decisions factor in apparatus usage, component age, vehicle technology and any new safety regulations. The board recorded that there is a three-year lead time from an initial order to delivery for new apparatus.
Board members reviewed operating-budget details and noted several line items — the Firemen’s Incentive Program, supplemental insurance and the part-time clerical salary — are paid directly by the Town. The operating budget will include a request for an additional part-time administrative position.
The Fire Marshal (Deputy Chief Adam Kerop) was not present and the minutes record nothing to report from that office. Chief Engineer Tom Lee said he is still obtaining pricing for replacement tires for the fire trucks.
Chief Engineer Tom Lee moved to adjourn at 8:21 p.m.; Gary Elliott seconded and the motion passed unanimously. The board did not record any new business for the meeting.
The board tabled formal acceptance of the department’s elected officers until the next regular meeting.
