Milton Rejects $260,000 Request to Staff Backup Ladder Truck in East Milton

Key Points

  • Proposal to hire four firefighters for Ladder 2 was defeated.
  • Supporters called the unmanned truck "just a piece of iron."
  • Warrant Committee opposed the additional $260,000 personnel expense.

Voters declined a proposal to spend $260,000 to hire four additional firefighters to man Ladder 2 at the East Milton Station. The Warrant Committee had recommended a "no" vote on the article, arguing against the additional personnel costs at this time.

Proponents of the measure argued that without dedicated staffing, the ladder truck—which was funded in a separate article—is essentially just a piece of iron sitting in the station. One resident emphasized the need for a backup ladder truck in case the town's primary vehicle fails or is unable to navigate certain areas. However, the Warrant Committee clarified that while the truck itself would be available for use by existing staff if needed, the town could not support a dedicated four-person crew for the vehicle. The motion failed to garner enough support during a voice vote.

Motion: To appropriate $260,000 for remanning Ladder 2.

Vote: Failed