The funds will pay for more than 60 new pieces of breathing apparatuses. Existing equipment is nearing the end of its shelf life and is generally too expensive to replace in bulk. This modern equipment will be lighter to carry and will benefit fire departments in McArthur, Hamden, Zaleski, Wilkesville and Harrison Twp.

City officials are working on a $10 million plan to build a new firehouse on a grassy area at the intersection Palisade Avenue and Elm and New School streets.

Mayor Mike Spano said he's including money for the new firehouse in his 2017-18 budget that he is expected to present in April. He called the existing former Fire Station 1 and fire headquarters at 5-7 New School St. "economically beyond repair."

The station was built in 2001. Unfortunately, there was some faulty construction issues and structural problems.

According to Daisy Mountain Fire Department, "The station was built by a former fire Chief (literally) and there was no warranty or contractor that could be held responsible for the faulty construction. The station was having structural problems due to soil compaction prior to construction. The district did conduct a feasibility study to determine whether it would be more cost effective to repair the station or rebuild. Due to the extensive problems with the building it was determined that it would be more cost effective to rebuild."

It is asking the city to rebuild fire station 6, which is one of its oldest and busiest fire stations, in the same area where is currently located.

That station is located in the 2800 block of Bosque Boulevard and was built in 1940.