Sterling officials report accelerated firetruck delivery, cemetery notice, seasonal hiring and cleanup update

Fire Chief Brian Rife told the Sterling City Commission on April 20 that the production schedule for the city’s new firetruck has been accelerated: assembly is expected to be complete in July 2026, with Chief Rife planning to travel to the manufacturer for a final inspection in August. Rife said payment of the remaining balance will be due at the time of final inspection and that he intends to finalize financing to take advantage of lower interest rates. He also said the city plans a community ceremony to present the vehicle once it is received and that the current truck, which remains operable, could be stored in a temperature-controlled garage until it is sold or otherwise disposed of.

City Manager Ian Hutcheson reported that the Cemetery Board recently reviewed bylaws and will publish a notice in the Sterling Bulletin about removal of prohibited personal plants and memorial items. Hutcheson said the city has hired lifeguards for the 2026 pool season, expects to hire Public Works seasonal employees in early May, and is still accepting applications for Public Works seasonal positions in person at City Hall or by email to sterlingcity@sterling-kansas.com. He also noted two vacancies remain on the Library Board for which residents may apply.

Hutcheson thanked volunteers and Sterling College students who assisted with the Citywide Cleanup on April 18 and acknowledged Stutzman Refuse Disposal for providing roll-off containers. No council action was required on these operational updates.