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Woolwich committee approves $1.98M ladder truck ordinance amid financing concerns
Summary
The Woolwich Township Committee unanimously adopted Ordinance 2025-20 to appropriate $1.98 million for a ladder truck and authorize $1,886,145 in bonds; a committee member warned the total bond cost and interest could affect operating funds in 2027–2028.
Woolwich Township’s governing committee on Dec. 1 unanimously adopted Ordinance 2025-20, authorizing a $1,980,000 appropriation for the acquisition of a ladder truck and related fire equipment and permitting the issuance of up to $1,886,145 in bonds or notes to finance part of the purchase.
Committeeman Frederick raised financial concerns during discussion, saying the township faces a projected $2.77 million total bond cost that could include about $870,000 in interest paid from operating funds during 2027–2028 when staffing, sewer and bond payments may overlap. His comments prompted questions about timing and fiscal impact.
Mayor Matthias clarified that the ordinance merely authorizes bonding and that the township will not issue debt until it is needed; he added that no payments would be due until the township receives the truck. The committee was told the financing plan has been approved by advisors and that the vendor lead time places expected delivery in 2029 (a 48-month lead time). The mayor also said the township has more than three years to pursue grants and reduce borrowing needs and that Swedesboro may contribute to the purchase.
The motion to adopt Ordinance 2025-20 was moved by Deputy Mayor Nocentino, seconded by Committeewoman Jackie Williams, and passed on a roll-call vote with all five members voting yes: Committeeman Frederick: Yes; Committeewoman Minhas: Yes; Committeewoman Williams: Yes; Deputy Mayor Nocentino: Yes; Mayor Matthias: Yes.
Committee members noted a resolution to award the contract to First Choice Apparatus will be presented at a future meeting; the ordinance authorizes bonding now but does not finalize financing terms or contract award.
