EMERSON – Leaders from local emergency services presented essential equipment needs aimed at enhancing resident safety from fire and crime during a March 5 budget review session with the Borough Council.
Though specific budget figures were undisclosed, Fire Chief Thomas Carlos and Police Chief Mark Savino outlined anticipated requirements for 2024, including capital requests.
Carlos highlighted issues with the department’s 1998 pumper truck, advocating for the purchase of a demonstration model to address pumping problems at a reduced cost and shorter delivery time compared to ordering new.
Carlos said he had been asking for a new fire truck for seven years, noting the price has “almost doubled” in that time, from approximately $400,000 to approximately $800,000.
He emphasized the urgency, noting the strain posed by the new Emerson Station development. Carlos stressed the importance of updated equipment due to potential exposure to toxins in firefighting gear. He mentioned collaborative efforts with neighboring towns to mitigate costs for gear cleaning.
Assistant Fire Chief Joseph Mara highlighted grant acquisitions, including funds for firefighter gear and radios. He also discussed operational challenges, such as reliance on a repurposed rescue truck.
“We are looking to get what we need and what we need only. We are not looking to get anything special,” said the chief.
In addition to the fire department’s requests, Police Chief Mark Savino outlined budget needs for ALPRs and an e-tickets system to streamline traffic enforcement processes. He emphasized the efficiency gains and improved data tracking afforded by these technologies.
Savino also requested resources for police reserves, including radios and vests, and addressed the need for computer upgrades. He said there was a $25,000 increase in the police budget for the purchase of new computers, replacing those no longer supported for Windows 10 software.
Councilor Brian Gordon inquired about fire hydrant installations at Emerson Station, prompting discussion on infrastructure considerations for expanded service coverage.
Mara said there is a temporary pipe in front of the building (under construction) and eventually two new hydrants would be put in front of the residential complex on Kinderkamack Road.
Carlos said firefighters walked the new building and said it was “impossible” to bring hose from the fire engine to the opposite end of the third floor: “It’s such a long run.”
He said crews would be relying on the standpipe system “and even that’s going to be difficult.”
Added Mara, “As the town’s getting bigger, you know, these are the kinds of things we have to look ahead to.”