In late 2024, the Town of Taghkanic created the Taghkanic Fire District, shifting oversight from the Town Board to five elected fire commissioners. This change is mainly administrative—it shifts responsibility for budgets, equipment, and facilities to the commission, while the same dedicated volunteer firefighters continue to respond to emergencies.
The commissioners are preparing the district’s first budget. Just like groceries, gas, and utilities, the cost of fire equipment has gone up sharply in recent years. Items that protect our firefighters and keep the community safe, from helmets and bunker gear to hoses and fire trucks, are far more expensive than they used to be. On top of that, new fire trucks can take several years to arrive due to nationwide supply backlogs.
RISING COSTS OF FIREFIGHTING EQUIPMENT
Vendors and manufacturers that supply the fire service raise prices on gear and equipment each January, and the cost of new fire trucks typically increases by about 10% every year. These predictable, industry-wide cost hikes make long-term planning essential.
| Item | 2020 COST | 2025 Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Firefighter helmet | $300 | $500 |
| Bunker gear (coat & pants) | $2,000 | $3,800 |
| 5” supply hose (100 ft) | $600 | $900 |
| Fire engine pumper | $750,000 | $1.5 million |
Because of these higher costs, fire taxes will rise next year, but careful planning now will help reducThe Taghkanic Fire District covers 42 square miles, responds to about 100 calls per year, and has 28 active members. The department maintains two engine/pumpers, two tankers, a rescue truck, and auxiliary vehicles such as the chief’s truck and a brush fire truck. The oldest pumper is now more than 20 years old and requires frequent repairs, underscoring the importance of planning for replacement.e long-term costs. The 2026 budget sets aside $200,000 toward a new fire truck, expected to cost over $1.5 million. Saving money each year will reduce the need to borrow later, ultimately saving taxpayers money.
A public hearing on the proposed budget will be held on Tuesday, October 21 at 7:30 PM at the Fire Station, 631 Old Route 82. The fire district’s budget is available for review at the town clerk’s office, or you may request a copy by emailing: tagh.fire.secretary@gmail.com.