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Fire chief highlights $400,000 apparatus cost, staggered turnout-gear replacements
Summary
Fire Chief Richie Evans told trustees a new fire truck would cost about $400,000 and that Jacksonville plans to sell a vehicle in early 2026 (asking $400,000–$450,000); turnout gear replacement is on a multi-year schedule with some sets already ordered.
Fire Chief Richie Evans briefed the Committee of the Whole on the department's capital needs, saying a replacement fire truck would cost about $400,000 and noting the neighboring Jacksonville department intends to sell a truck in the first quarter of 2026, listing it at $400,000–$450,000 and suggesting any purchase would require negotiation and fall in November if pursued.
Evans said turnout gear replacements are on a scheduled rotation (three sets per year currently) and that some gear has already been ordered; he indicated the department could reduce that replacement rate to two sets next year if necessary. No formal budget amendment or purchase authorization was made at the meeting; trustees requested staff include the estimates in the budget packet and revisit during the public-hearing process.
Speakers: Fire Chief Richie Evans; Treasurer Mindy Olson.
