New Bedford Fire Chief Calls for Engine Upgrades

The city's firefighting fleet is getting older, and Fire Chief Michael Gomes wants to do something about that.

Gomes went before the Committee on Public Safety and Neighborhoods Tuesday to present a long-term capital improvement plan to replace the city's ladder trucks and engines over the next 15 years.

Gomes says service calls are increasing every year, and that fire departments are taking on more responsibilities all the time.

Committee Chairman Brian Gomes thinks the condition of the city's fire equipment demands immediate action.

The Committee has asked Mayor Jon Mitchell to review the plan and respond on its feasibility, within the next three weeks.