Ridgefield Reviews Fire Dept Budget, Focuses On Staffing And Costly Equipment

RIDGEFIELD, CT— Ridgefield selectpersons on Jan. 28 reviewed a proposed 2026–27 budget for the Ridgefield Fire Department, focusing on staffing stability, rising equipment costs, and major capital investments for ambulances and firefighter safety gear.

No votes were taken during the presentation.

Fire officials reported that full-time salary costs are projected to decline in the coming fiscal year, largely due to turnover among senior personnel and the hiring of newer firefighters at lower salary steps. Fire officials said the department recently hired eight firefighters and experienced no retirements or departures over the past six months, a shift from recent years marked by high turnover.

Selectpersons questioned whether reduced salary costs could signal staffing instability. Fire officials said the department has focused on recruitment and retention by improving onboarding, compensation competitiveness and training opportunities, noting that retention remains an ongoing concern statewide.

Overtime spending, which surged in prior years due to staffing shortages, has stabilized, according to department officials. Overtime levels have moderated as staffing levels improved, though emergency response demands remain unpredictable.

Training costs are proposed to increase, reflecting the department’s younger workforce and the need to certify firefighters in multiple roles. Fire officials said additional training is necessary to maintain operational readiness as new hires advance through required certifications.

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A significant portion of the discussion centered on capital spending. The department’s capital plan includes funding for replacement self-contained breathing apparatus, or SCBA, used by firefighters in hazardous environments. The department is seeking to standardize equipment to avoid safety risks associated with mixing different models, citing the importance of consistency and muscle memory in emergency conditions.

Selectpersons also discussed the planned purchase of a new ambulance, with officials noting that supply-chain delays and manufacturer consolidation have extended delivery timelines to two to three years. Fire officials said Ridgefield has secured a place in the production queue but emphasized that approval of funding is required to finalize the order, noting that replacing high-mileage ambulances is critical to maintaining service reliability.

The board raised questions about the cost and lifespan of emergency vehicles and equipment. Fire officials explained that ambulances and fire apparatus are highly customized and subject to rapid wear due to heavy use, cold starts and emergency response conditions, making timely replacement essential.

Utility costs and building maintenance were also discussed, though officials said no major facility projects are proposed in the upcoming budget year. Long-term planning continues for future capital needs tied to equipment, facilities and staffing, according to the department.

The Board of Selectpersons did not take public comment during the fire department presentation and took no action on the budget request. The proposal will continue through the town’s budget review process, including consideration by the Board of Finance.