The need to replace Engine 4 is crucial for protection of Gilford

To the editor,

An open letter to Gilford residents:

At the polls Tuesday, Sept. 11th there will be a special ballot regarding the effort to replace 25-year-old Engine 4. This ballot opportunity was approved by Superior Court Justice McHugh after agreeing with the need for an emergency town vote to replace this truck. This proposal to replace Engine 4 with the lease/purchase on an E-ONE attack pumper has been unanimously supported by the Board of Selectmen, Capital Improvement Committee, Board of Fire Engineers, and endorsement of the Budget Committee, 8-4. The current (out of service) condition of Engine 4 is not due to neglect by firefighters or our mechanics. It has been scheduled to be replaced for sometime.

The need for replacement of this engine is crucial to the firefighting capabilities and protection of our town. Please vote to approve the replacement of Engine 4.

P.S. Passage of this article will cost the average homeowner $7.50 per year.

Gilford Board of Fire Engineers

William Akerley, Phillip Brouillard, Don Spear