Council signals go-ahead to pursue purchase of new Quint and mechanical CPR devices; staff to return with contracts

Council members at the June 30 budget workshop signaled consensus to move forward with procurement steps for a new Quint fire apparatus (estimated just over $2 million) and to replace two Lucas mechanical CPR devices used on emergency medical calls.

Assistant Fire Chief James Leary explained the operational need: Duncanville's reserve engine is nearly 20 years old, call volume has grown substantially (from roughly 2,200 calls a year two decades ago to more than 7,600 annual calls now), and modern apparatus and medical devices improve responder safety and patient survivability. "These devices increase survivability in people who have fallen into cardiac arrest," Leary said of Lucas compressors.

Council and staff discussed funding sources: staff noted roughly $4.1 million already transferred to one-time funds from excess DCDC fund balance and the possibility of a further drawdown toward a 90-day minimum reserve, which could make additional one-time investment available. Several members stressed the need to address facility issues (including foundation concerns at Fire Station 2) while proceeding with equipment replacement.

Mayor summarized the meeting's direction: staff will present formal contract authorization and budget amendments for the Quint and the Lucas-device purchases at upcoming meetings; the council asked staff to circulate a prioritization spreadsheet for the remaining one-time requests so members can indicate preferences ahead of the August budget workshop.

Not a formal vote: council discussion ended in a clear consensus to proceed, but staff will return with the formal agenda items and contract documents required for authorization.

Sources: Duncanville staff presentations and council discussion at the June 30, 2026 workshop.