The town has purchased several new pieces of equipment to support public works and public safety, after allocating money in the 2017-’18 budget.

A new $625,000 rescue pumper fire truck is still at the dealership, and Assistant Fire Chief Chuck Licata estimates it will be another few weeks before it is delivered. Licata also said the department has purchased new rescue tools and devices, such as hoses and nozzles, and new equipment for firefighters.

A new $130,000 plow truck was purchased for the Public Works Department. Public Works Superintendent of Operations Robert Parente said the frontline plow truck is working well. He said public works also plans to request another new truck in the 2018-’19 budget process.

Mayor Joseph Maturo, Jr., said that buying new trucks for public works on a yearly basis, rather than replacing several at once, is beneficial for the department.

Mechanic and welder Allan Schroeter was hired about six months ago to help maintain the fleet of town vehicles. Parente said Schroeter was definitely an asset to the department. Finance Director Paul Rizza said the mechanic will make about $50,000 per year.