City to Purchase New Fire Truck; Receive $ to Hire Fire Fighters

At right: A Medford firetruck during the war memorial dedication ceremony in October 2007. Photo by Alexander Svirsky.

Story Updated 4:54PM, Tuesday, November 24, 2009

Mayor Asks Council to Approve $800,000 Loan for Ladder Truck

The city is planning to purchase a new fire engine.

The Mayor has requested the City Council to approve an $800,000 loan order to purchase and equip a new ladder truck.

The measure will come before the Council during their regularly scheduled meeting on Tuesday, November 24 at 7PM in the Council Chambers at City Hall.

Medford to Receive $178,968 to Hire Fire Fighters

Medford and thirty-four other communities across the state will receive part of $17.8 million in federal stimulus money to hire, rehire, or retain police officers or fire fighters. The funds can also be used to support additional shift staffing needs.

According to Medford’s State House delegation, Medford is receiving $178,986 to hire two fire fighters.

“This is important funding that will greatly assist Medford in meeting its needs to help ensure the safety and security of its residents,” said State Senator Pat Jehlen. “I am very please to make this announcement.”

“As a former municipal official, I am grateful for this funding,” said State Representative Paul Donato. “Public safety should be a high priority even in these tough economic times.”

“This money will protect Medford residents by ensuring key public services can continue operating at safe staff levels. I’m glad to see the stimulus funds addressing issues that are in the best interest of our community,” said State Representative Sean Garballey.

“These funds will enable the department to hire new staff and help ensure our community remains safe and well-served. It is wonderful that even in these difficult economic times, we have the opportunity to support the men and women that protect Medford,” said State Representative Carl Sciortino.

Sign Up for Fire Fighter Exam

In other fire department news, the state is offering a fire fighter exam on April 24, 2010. The last day to apply to take the exam is March 16, 2010 and applications are available in Room 204 at Medford City Hall and at the Medford Public Library.

Information about the exam is also available on the state administration and finance department website.

– InsideMedford.com