During the administrative report, Lacey Fire District 3 was briefed by the State Fire Chiefs on a planned class action lawsuit against major fire apparatus manufacturers Oshkosh, REV Group, and Rosenbauer America, alleging price fixing, production suppression, and market manipulation that have driven average pumper costs above 1 million and extended lead times to four years. LFD3 and East Olympia both own qualifying apparatus and staff recommended, and commissioners agreed, to have staff further investigate participation and consult legal counsel. The discussion highlighted that rapidly escalating costs and long waits are straining apparatus replacement plans and public safety.While the class action itself is a legal matter, the underlying need signals that LFD3 may be rethinking its long‑term fleet strategy, financing, and procurement timing. Vendors offering alternative apparatus builders, remounts, refurbishment, financing, fleet planning, or interim solutions could leverage this context to discuss options that mitigate cost and lead‑time risk for future purchases.

The example given showed an engine price increase from 639000 in 2020 to 1142000 in 2026 for an identical unit purchased by Oshkosh Fire Department (not LFD3).