| You’ll see crews out learning how the apparatus handles, becoming familiar with its systems, and working through the unique aspects of tower operations before it is placed into full service.
This purchase was made possible through our Firefighters’ Relief Association and represents an important step toward reducing expenditures and eliminating unnecessary duplication of resources within our immediate area. We would also like to thank Deputy Chief Billy Cairns and Chief William Rigby of Rocky Run/Middletown Township Fire Department in Delaware County for their assistance throughout the acquisition process.
Before coming to Kutztown, the apparatus successfully completed its required aerial and pump testing/certifications and underwent extensive preventative maintenance. Our goal was not simply to purchase another piece of equipment, but to acquire a safe, reliable apparatus capable of serving our first-due community and mutual-aid partners for the years ahead. More importantly, this purchase is part of a much larger financial and operational plan for the department.
Our current ladder will be offered for sale, with those proceeds being used toward paying off the remaining loan on the two engines delivered in 2023. This strategy puts Kutztown Fire & Rescue in a position to operate debt-free for approximately the next 5–7 years while allowing us to begin setting aside the funding necessary for our next major apparatus purchase.
Rather than taking on another significant loan today, we can plan ahead and save toward a future apparatus custom-built around the needs of Kutztown and our surrounding response area. That future apparatus will be designed with reducing duplication, operational capability, long-term reliability, and an anticipated service life of approximately 20 years in mind.
So, if you see us out driving over the next few weeks, give the crew a wave—and maybe give us a little extra room while everyone gets used to the new ride! 🚒
-Joshua Young, Fire Chief |
