Fall River City Council has taken significant steps to enhance the city's firefighting capabilities during their recent meeting on May 29, 2025. The council discussed the procurement of new fire apparatus, including a ladder truck and an engine, which are expected to be delivered in 2026. The ladder truck's chassis is scheduled for production in November, while the engine's chassis will follow in March.

Concerns were raised regarding the rising costs of fire apparatus, with prices reportedly doubling over a short period. The council noted that the last engine purchased cost between $500,000 and $600,000, while the upcoming engine is expected to be just under a million dollars. This price surge has prompted the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) to investigate potential market manipulation by Rev Group, a conglomerate that owns many major fire apparatus manufacturers. The IAFF is concerned that this consolidation may limit competition and inflate prices for fire departments nationwide.

In addition to the apparatus discussion, the council highlighted the importance of customizing the new trucks to meet the unique needs of Fall River, which has steep hills that can affect vehicle performance. The apparatus committee is actively involved in ensuring that the specifications for the new trucks are tailored to the city's terrain.

The meeting also addressed preventative maintenance protocols for the fire trucks. The chief indicated that while the manufacturer recommends servicing every 500 hours, the city is considering a more frequent schedule of 250 to 300 hours due to the demanding conditions faced by the vehicles.

Overall, the council's decisions reflect a commitment to improving public safety through better-equipped fire services, while also navigating the challenges posed by rising costs and market dynamics. As the city moves forward with these purchases, the implications for operational efficiency and community safety will be closely monitored.