The city’s newest fire engine has been delivered to the Winnfield Fire Department and Chief Brian Montgomery announced that a traditional dedication ceremony has been set for Saturday, April 27.

The truck, described as a pumper engine, arrived at a cost of $585,000 and once it was fitted out with all necessary equipment, the tab rose to $630,000.  By way of demonstrating escalating costs, Montgomery said that the last pumper engine the city bought in 2007 cost $330,000.

The engine will replace the 1979 model Mack engine that the city also purchased new.

“This Spartan-manufactured engine comes with all the necessities as we continue to work through this year towards our goal of lowering our insurance rating from a Class 3 to a Class 2,” said the chief.  “It carries 1,000 gallons of water and has a slightly shorter wheel base which will improve negotiating any tight turns through our streets.  LED lighting is also a safety factor.”

The department will continue working in efforts to earn the improved rating for the City of Winnfield in the upcoming grading cycle.  This city will be graded during March 2025 and should learn the results later that year.

The acquisition will give the Winnfield Fire Department a fleet including four pumper engines (the number required for the lower insurance rating), a ladder truck with a 75-foot ladder, a reserve ladder truck, a heavy rescue vehicle and an EMS quick-response vehicle.

Chief Montgomery said an Open House will be held Saturday, April 27, from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m. to celebrate the arrival of the newest engine.  Included will be hotdogs and refreshments as well as activities for children.  Dedication of the new truck will begin at noon.