Statement of Town Manager and Fire Chief on Andover Ladder Truck

ANDOVER — Town Manager Andrew Flanagan and Fire Chief Michael Mansfield wish to provide the following statement regarding Andover Fire Rescue’s new ladder truck:

“The Town of Andover’s new ladder truck was delivered on July 2 and within hours underwent a thorough inspection. Following that inspection, the town issued a letter of non-conformance to the truck’s manufacturer, Pierce Manufacturing, after it determined that the truck was not built to Andover Fire Rescue’s exact specifications.

Pierce has agreed to re-take possession of the vehicle and make the modifications necessary for it to conform with the town’s needs at no further cost to the town.

While the truck had been delivered, it’s critical to note that it was never put into active service. Andover Fire Rescue will continue to use its existing Ladder 1 until the new truck is returned to the town and members of the department are trained on its functions. There has been no interruption in service to the town as a result of the new truck’s non-conformance.

The town expects the new truck will enter service in early September.”

###