Newbury discusses replacing 1980s fire trucks and maintenance needs at West Newbury station

Fire-department leadership and town officials discussed capital and maintenance needs for 2026 at the Jan. 3 budget hearing. The record states two older model trucks from the 1980s will be sold and the possibility of purchasing a replacement truck in 2026 was discussed. Committee members also noted that building-maintenance costs for the West Newbury Fire Station may be under-budgeted despite the Newbury Village station being new.

The committee emphasized it needs additional detail on equipment and capital requests before committing funds, and members discussed adjustments to firefighter stipends and pay. The hearing record does not show a formal motion or vote on replacing equipment; the Selectboard and Budget Advisory Committee asked department leaders to provide more granular capital plans and cost estimates.