FINANCIAL BUSINESS REQUEST (FBR)
Motion/Request:
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MOTION to authorize the purchase of fire apparatus (brush truck) in the amount of $320,479.60 for Gales Ferry Fire Co from account # 0210-20-2040-54325 (AES - Fire Apparatus CNR).
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Background:
Gales Ferry Fire Co currently operates a 2004 Ford Brush truck which responds to brush fires throughout the town and most of their emergency medical calls. This apparatus has received extensive repairs in prior years including replacement of the turbo several times and the pump has been overhauled.
In addition to brush fires and emergency medical calls, R-22 also responds to flooded basement calls, service calls, and smoke investigations. In 2024, this apparatus responded to 238 emergency calls (out of 704 total for the dept). 73% of the calls were EMS related.
The apparatus replacement committee met consistently over the last year to identify the department and town’s needs for the replacement apparatus. A specification was developed including all those needs. In addition, discussion was had with several vendors to examine production time, warranty info, etc.
Department Comment/Recommendation:
I recommend the purchase of this apparatus to replace the aging 2004 Ford. Given the 24 month production time, the existing apparatus will be 23 years old when its replacement arrives. The average life span of fire apparatus generally is 15-20 years and the NFPA recommends retirement of apparatus older than 25 years. I also support the use of the Houston / Galveston Purchasing Collective.
Finance Director Comment/Recommendation:
Account 21020401-54325 Fire Apparatus has an unencumbered available balance of $1,403,085 as of March 12, 2025.
HGACBuy is a governmental purchasing collaborative that numerous Connecticut cities and towns belong to. The Town of Ledyard recently applied for a no cost membership. Membership approval has not yet been finalized but is anticipated shortly.
Mayor Comment/Recommendation:
I support this motion and concur with the NFPA recommendation of retirement of apparatus older than 25 years.