Voters will decide at the annual town meeting next month whether to approve purchasing a new mini-pumper for the West Paris Fire Department for $413,996.
The 2025 Ford firetruck is being assembled at a factory and would be delivered to the town in early April, if voters approve the purchase from Bulldog Fire Apparatus, Fire Chief Michael Henderson said Tuesday, Feb. 24.
The utility rescue firetruck, which can hold 300 gallons of water, would replace an old 700-gallon firetruck the department sold, Henderson said. The mini-pumper could get to tighter locations, provide needed services and cost less than a large truck, he said.
Money will come from the firetruck reserve account, protection-assigned fund balance, Fire Department–assigned fund balance and the unassigned fund. The Budget Committee and Select Board recommend approval.
Town Manager Joy Downing, the Budget Committee and selectmen also recommend approving money to ensure security at the former Agnes Gray School at 170 Main St., including new locks, bond payments, liability insurance and electricity for parking lot lighting.
The two-story, wood-framed school was built in the late 1800s and most recently served elementary students. Maine School Administrative District 17 abruptly closed it in February 2024 after receiving a report that cited numerous code violations that made it unsafe to use. It was eventually boarded up to prevent vandalism. The town took ownership of the property in November 2025 by a 109-2 vote.
Selectmen recommend $13,355 less than the $17,311 recommended by Downing and the Budget Committee to secure it. Downing said selectmen hope volunteers will help maintain it. She said she has heard from several members of the town’s Bobcat Committee who are interested in assisting; however, “it’s nice to have a backup.”
The town will vote on taking ownership of Wayside Cemetery on Main Street. The cemetery is maintained by Cindy Cox Edmunds and Elaine Emery.
Voters will choose a selectman/overseer of the poor/assessor, and a Water District trustee in the annual elections. All positions are for three-year terms.
The town meeting is set for Saturday, March 7, at 10 a.m. at the Ring-McKeen Post 151 American Legion, 6 Church St.
