Fire department to move forward on grant‑funded UTV for wildland and event response

The Marshfield Fire Department won approval to consolidate grant and donation funds and solicit bids for a utility terrain vehicle (UTV) outfitted for wildland firefighting and basic EMS response.

Chief Jody told the commission the department successfully secured a DNR grant that covered the skid unit (the specialized equipment mounted on the UTV) and that the skid has already been built. The department is waiting for an invoice so the DNR can reimburse half the skid cost as agreed. A donor contribution and other grants pushed the project’s funding over the needed threshold, allowing staff to move the money from a donation account to an expenditure account and begin the procurement process.

The project budget is about $55,000 and was previously in the CIP for next year; staff said the funding now comes largely from grants and donations. Department staff said they obtained multiple bids for the trailer and UTV and expect to present low‑bid recommendations to the finance and budget committee and the common council once the commission’s approval is recorded.

Commissioners noted the UTV will have multiple uses beyond wildland response, including EMS response at festivals and small‑area fires in downtown events. The commission approved the motion to transfer funds and solicit bids by roll call. Staff aim to have the vehicle operational before the spring wildland season.