The January 8 meeting of the Mattapoisett Capital Planning Committee found the members reviewing the needs of the Mattapoisett Fire Department as presented by Chief Andrew Murray for FY25. The list of needs totals a mere $37,000, small potatoes when contrasted against previous years’ needs, as well as needs on the 10-year capital plan.
The list contains a request of $8,000 for a new pump for the department’s forestry pump truck, $18,000 for hose replacements and $11,000 for new helmets. Regarding the need for new helmets, Murray explained that helmets have a 10-year life span before NFPA (National Fire Protection Agency) regulations require their replacement.
When asked the frequency of use for the pump truck, Murray responded up to 10 times a year. However, it is the primary vehicle slated for use along the bike path.
A Firefighter Safety Equipment grant in the amount of $15,500 has been secured, Murray noted, reducing the amount needed from the town’s coffers for the purchase of new hoses.
Regarding funding of the three capital planning requests, Murray noted they would be funded via free cash. Town Administrator Mike Lorenco stated in a follow-up that free cash stands at approximately $1,000,000.
The need for a ladder truck has been discussed in several meetings but for now is merely a place holder in the department’s capital planning. Murray said that Marion would continue to provide that equipment in the mutual-aid scenario.
On the capital planning 10-year horizon for the Fire Department are: $800,000 for Engine 2 replacement FY26; $150,000 for new frame for Engine 1; and for FY28, $800,000 for a new rescue truck.
Lorenco cautioned that while the immediate financial future of the town remains strong, judicious spending should continue to be the rule.
Lorenco was to have given the committee his capital needs report for Town Hall, but pressing attention to replacing several department heads has had to come first.
The town of Mattapoisett needs to replace a library director, a treasurer/collector, a town accountant and a director of inspectional services.
The next meeting of the Mattapoisett Capital Planning Committee is scheduled for Monday, January 29, at 5:30 pm.
Mattapoisett Capital Planning
By Marilou Newell