A hearing this week in Harrisburg focused on the rising price of firetrucks.
The hearing was held Tuesday where state lawmakers focused on private equity’s consolidation of firetruck manufacturing.
“Private equity consolidation in the fire truck industry is driving up costs beyond what local fire companies can afford, forcing departments to stretch thin budgets just to maintain essential equipment,” State Representative Jennifer O’Mara of Delaware County said. “This isn’t just economic—it’s a safety issue. When outdated equipment fails, lives are at risk. Fire companies shouldn’t face soaring costs and limited options to protect their communities.”
Harmony Fire Chief Rob Reeb says his department has seen major price hikes in just the last couple of years.
“We purchased a firetruck three years ago that cost roughly $950,000,” Reeb said. “That same apparatus costs around $1.2 to $1.3 million right now.”
Lawmakers also criticized the wait times for fire apparatus delivery. In Harmony’s case—their trucks were ordered three years ago and will arrive later this summer.
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