The Public Safety & Transportation Committee approved the following (see report and watch the meeting video):
- Authorization to appropriate and expend $1,000,000 for PFAS-free Firefighter Gear (5-0, Councilor Block recused): to purchase PFAS-free bunker gear for each member of the Newton Fire Department in response to new regulations requiring such gear by 2027. One million is the estimated cost to purchase 200 sets of top-of-the-line bunker gear.
- Authorization to appropriate and expend $75,000 for Fire Shift Commander’s Vehicle Replacement (5-0, Councilor Block recused): to replace a heavily used 2019 Ford Expedition. A larger SUV to hold more equipment will be purchased. The Ford will go to surplus or auction.
- Authorization to appropriate and expend $1,800,000 for Fire Ladder Truck 3 Replacement (5-0, Councilor Block recused): Budget for a new fire ladder truck to replace Ladder 3, with the design focusing on a slightly smaller size for better maneuverability on narrow streets. Delivery is expected in 2½ to 3 years because of the time required for design and manufacturing.
