Plan goes before township voters on Sept. 22 at firehouse in Clarksburg.
By: Ken Weingartner
MILLSTONE Fire district officials next week will ask township voters to approve the acquisition of a new fire truck.
A referendum to authorize an expenditure of up to $600,000 will be held from 2 to 9 p.m. Sept. 22 at the firehouse, 461 Stagecoach Road, Clarksburg.
Official said the new engine, if approved, will replace a 30-year-old truck currently in the department’s fleet. The new truck, officials said, combines aerial capabilities with a pumper truck and hose carrier, which will help firefighters battle blazes, particularly as more multistory houses are constructed in the township.
"This new truck will greatly expand our capabilities to apply large volumes of water quickly to extinguish fires," Millstone Fire Chief Ed Reed said. "This truck will enhance our rescue capabilities, improving our abilities both to save lives and minimize property damage. Another major benefit is that this vehicle will take fewer firefighters to operate, compared to using ground ladders."
Chief Reed said district officials believe acquiring the truck will not impact the fire tax rate. He said officials most likely will do a lease-purchase for the truck. The current fire tax rate in Millstone is .082 cents per $100 of assessed valuation.
If the truck acquisition is approved, Chief Reed said the district will go to bid as soon as possible. It will take approximately 10 months to get the truck, he said.
"We believe this is an investment in the safety and property of all members of our community," Chief Reed said. "Given the advanced technology and additional features provided by this equipment, we feel it is a sensible and timely decision to make."

