UPDATE: Saugerties village officials are urgently considering the purchase of a $1.1 million fire truck to replace a deteriorating 23-year-old vehicle. Fire Chief Chris Mason has raised serious concerns about the current truck’s unsafe condition during a Village Board meeting held on December 1.
Mason highlighted critical issues, stating, “It does have some air leaks,” and warned that without proper air supply, the truck’s brakes could fail. This situation poses a significant risk to public safety. The current vehicle also suffers from generator malfunctions, affecting essential equipment used in emergencies. “Sometimes the generator on the truck stops working on us,” Mason added, underscoring the urgency of acquiring a new, reliable vehicle.
The existing truck, manufactured by American LaFrance, is now outdated, as the company went out of business in 2014. Mason pointed out that maintaining the aging vehicle has become increasingly challenging, stating, “We’ve had to Band Aid over the years just to be able to get them passing the standardizations for our annual checks.”
Concerns extend beyond the vehicle’s functionality; firefighters are also uncertain about the accuracy of fuel and water level gauges. “The fuel tank is a steel tank that’s starting to rust,” Mason explained. He warned that any inaccuracies could lead to disastrous consequences during emergencies.
The last fire truck was purchased in 2015 for approximately $600,000, but rising tariffs and higher manufacturing standards have contributed to the current price increase. “The longer we wait to go ahead with this, the more expensive the truck’s going to be,” Mason stressed.
Village Board members are currently assessing how this purchase could impact the village’s fire rating, which directly affects local insurance rates. Mayor Bill Murphy expressed concerns about the unpredictability of future costs, stating, “The tariffs were a big factor, and we don’t know how it’s going to play out over the next three or four years. That’s the scary part.”
As discussions continue, the community’s safety hangs in the balance. The decision on whether to proceed with the purchase is expected soon, with officials aiming to prioritize the well-being of residents and ensure the fire department is equipped to respond effectively to emergencies.
This developing situation is a reminder of the vital role that reliable emergency services play in community safety, and residents are encouraged to stay informed as updates become available.
