Rising Costs and Delays Strain Chico Fire Department Fleet Replacements
What happened
The Chico Fire Department is grappling with steeply rising costs and longer delivery times for new fire engines and apparatus. The department noted that while engines purchased around 2016 cost about $650,000, a batch bought in 2024 cost between $950,000 and just under $1 million. Furthermore, the time required to acquire an apparatus has increased from 12 to 18 months to three to five years.
From krcrtv.com
Why it matters
The cost increases are attributed to supply chain disruptions, labor shortages, inflation, and global conflicts. Concerns were also raised regarding consolidation among fire apparatus manufacturers, with about three major companies controlling 70% of the market. This trend is straining local fire departments nationwide.
High apparatus costs are straining local fire departments.
From krcrtv.com