Bridgeport council addresses fire vehicle replacements, ambulance financing

BRIDGEPORT -- Bridgeport’s fire department is facing the urgent need to replace two aging emergency vehicles, a key issue at the city council’s Feb. 19 meeting. Officials are weighing repair costs against replacement options, while also exploring funding for a new ambulance box through grants and low-interest loans.

Fire and EMS Committee member Zeke Martinez reported that a brush truck, used for fighting fires in hard-to-reach areas, was found to have low cylinder compression, signaling engine failure.

With a replacement engine costing over $16,000, councilmembers will weigh the feasibility of repairs against purchasing a new vehicle, though funding is not currently budgeted.

The department is also adjusting the 2025 budget to replace its 1998 command vehicle with a later model. The seller has offered the city $2,000 for its current command vehicle.

The city originally budgeted $20,000 for a newer command vehicle. The city submitted bids to three dealerships to find one that came nearest the budget allowance. A test drive and inspection by city public works further narrowed the choice. The new amount will be nearly $28,000 to include acquisition costs for the replacement.

Ambulance action

Councilmembers voted unanimously to proceed with a grant funding application to acquire a new box for the city’s ambulance chassis. 

Clerk/treasurer Judy Brown explained that she is working with Hagerty Consulting on possible grant funding through USDA Rural Development. While a grant is not guaranteed, Hagerty also can provide a 4.25 percent low interest loan as an alternative. 

A portion of city utility bills—$3 to $4 per customer—funds ambulance services.

With over $80,000 expected in the fund by year’s end, the city plans to use it as a down payment on the new ambulance box, with the remainder financed through either a grant or a low-interest loan.

Mike Maltais: 360-333-8483 or michael@ward.media