Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Equipment Purchase topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Ripon-area fire board approves midyear budget adjustment to buy radio for new engine
Summary
The board approved a midyear budget adjustment of $3,009.54 to cover purchase and installation of a dual-band radio for a new engine after debate over whether to use capital funds or move money from salary and DOT-testing line items.
The Ripon Area Fire District board voted to move $3,009.54 in midyear funds to pay for a radio and its installation for the department's new engine.
During discussion, a committee member said the department had $3,954 available from interim-salary line items and a small remainder from DOT testing, "So that adds up to $5,356 and the estimate was for $4,989.90." The chief confirmed the quoted price included programming and installation and described the radio as a dual-band model positioned to remain compatible during the 700/800 MHz transition.
Board members debated funding sources. One member proposed using the capital-improvement fund, citing its purpose for larger equipment, while others argued radios should be cash-flowed from operating or specific line-item transfers. A committee member recommended adopting a formal budget-adjustment worksheet to document midyear transfers and to make the trail of changes auditable.
After debate the Chair called for the vote; several members voiced aye and at least one member registered opposition. The Chair announced that the motion to move the funds was approved. The purchase will proceed and staff were directed to complete procurement and installation steps.
The next regular meeting is scheduled for 09/01/2026, where the board said it will continue to refine budget policies and procedures.
