Smyrna staff preview $1.6 million rescue apparatus purchase; officials say no payment until delivery

Fire department staff told the council they plan to purchase a Pierce walk-in heavy rescue apparatus through an established cooperative (Sourcewell) at a total cost just over $1,600,000 and an estimated 48-month delivery timeline. "The total comes to just over, believe it or not, $1,600,000," the chief (speaker 12) said, adding that payment would not be due until delivery.

Staff said the apparatus is part of a multi-year fleet plan and that after this purchase they expect no further apparatus purchases until about 2032. Council sought clarification on how many additional units remain in the fleet plan and how this purchase fits the overall replacement schedule; staff said this will satisfy the near-term needs and that the cooperative procurement provided competitive pricing.

The chief also announced a separate emergency repair to one older fire apparatus—a rear-end replacement that cost $29,041.27—and noted that four recruits graduate from the State Fire Academy tomorrow.

Why it matters: the purchase is a large, multi-year capital commitment for public-safety equipment and is relevant to staffing, rescue capabilities and long-term fleet budgeting.

Next steps: staff will include the purchase agreement on the council agenda for authorization; delivery and payment are contingent on the manufacturer schedule and cooperative contract terms.