New apparatus triples water capacity for rural response

Caledonia Township firefighters now have a new tool to fight blazes in areas without hydrants. The Caledonia Fire Department took delivery of a 2025 Custom Fire Truck on June 20, replacing a 25-year-old water tender.

The old truck served the community since 2001. The new vehicle carries 3,000 gallons of water and features a 1,500-gallon per-minute pump. It functions as both a fire engine and a water tender.

Immediate impact on emergency response

Previously, crews responded with a fire engine holding 1,000 gallons while a separate water tender followed. The new truck allows firefighters to arrive with three times the water supply.

“This truck allows us to arrive on scene with the water and equipment needed to begin an immediate fire attack,” said Fire Chief Scott Siler. “Instead of focusing on conserving water, our crews can focus on putting the fire out. Big water puts out big fire.”

The upgrade buys valuable time during critical emergencies, particularly in parts of the township that lack fire hydrants.

Funding and taxpayer investment

Township Manager Alison Nugent stated the contract cost for the truck was $993,805. The Kent County Fire Commission contributed $210,000 toward the purchase.

“The final cost for Caledonia Township will be just under $784k,” said Nugent. “We have $800k ear-marked in Capital Outlay for this year.”

The Public Safety Advisory Committee approved the purchase in February 2024. The Township Board subsequently approved the acquisition.

“This level of service is possible because of our citizens’ support of the Public Safety Millage,” said Greg Zoller, Chairperson of the Public Safety Advisory Committee. “We want to thank the taxpayers for their continued investment in public safety and recognize our department leadership for ensuring we have the personnel, training, and equipment necessary to keep Caledonia safe and secure.”

The retired 2001 tanker will be sold through a specialized fire apparatus marketplace. Proceeds from the sale will help offset future equipment needs. The new truck is currently undergoing final equipment transfers and firefighter training before being placed into full service.