Anchorage Fire Department's Urgent Upgrade Vote

0:00It's March 30th. This is Anchorage News Today. Local news powered by AI. Anchorage voters got two big decisions coming up on April 7th for the fire department's beat-up fleet. Proposition 6 wants nearly $9 million for public safety upgrades like new ambulances and transit fixes. Proposition 7 seeks 2.5 million in bonds just for two replacement fire engines. These moves come from an aging lineup of trucks hitting the end of their road. Archie Doug Schrake says they've got around 35 heavy rigs with 8-10 past the 25-year mark. Frontline engines usually last 15 years before backup duty, but higher wear is speeding things up. Call volumes jump 50-60% over the last decade, same crews and gear handling way more action. Property owners everywhere face a tax hike if Prop 6 passes, but Prop 7 hits only the Anchorage Fire Service area, skipping spots like Gerdwood, or Tugiac. The department's plan catch up after some dry years without bonds on the ballot.

1:02They ordered 6 engines back in 2022, one for Gerdwood, and five here. But they're still behind on keeping backups reliable, no more. Sending utility vans to emergencies. With the vote just days away, these props could lock in a solid replacement plan, keeping Anchorage's firefighters rolling strong without the breakdowns.