Quincy’s city council is debating a $2.6 million bond to replace firefighter gear containing potentially harmful PFAS chemicals.
Some councilors are delaying the vote to ensure the new, PFAS-free gear does not introduce other safety risks, such as lower heat and chemical resistance.
Research is ongoing, but some studies suggest the new gear may be less durable and more flammable when exposed to certain chemicals.
A separate proposal suggests shortening the bond term from ten to five years to save taxpayers approximately $365,000 in interest.
QUINCY ‒ City council will convene a second time to discuss a $2.6 million bond authorization for new firefighter gear.
The turnout gear is the multi-layered protective outer garments worn by firefighters, which would replace existing gear that has tested positive for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, which have associated health risks, including certain cancers.
The city is preparing a lawsuit against the manufacturer of the PFAS-containing gear, which the city says was advertised as PFAS-free.
The council finance subcommittee, which includes all nine councilors, continued March 16 hearings on the matter, with five councilors seeking more information and four voting to end discussion. The next meeting takes place on Monday, March 23 at 7 p.m.
Some city officials and members of the public criticized the delay, casting the councilors’ questions as insensitivity to the risks faced by firefighters.
Will Quincy City Council spend $2.6M for new firefighter gear?
