City of Fate invests in Department of Public Safety additions and improvements

The design for the new police station will be awarded at the April City Council meeting.

Fate, TX (March 12, 2025) – The City of Fate is enhancing its emergency response capabilities with the purchase of a new 107’ aerial ladder truck, a critical addition to the Department of Public Safety’s fleet. This investment made possible through the approved DPS bond, underscores the city’s commitment to public safety and preparedness. 

$20 million in bond funds were recently acquired at an interest rate of 3.78% for Fate DPS projects.  The DPS, with the approval of city management and the City Council, proceeded with the immediate purchase of the new ladder truck using a local government purchasing pool at a price of $2.3 million.  Delivery is expected in 1.5 to 2 years. 

Last August, the City of Fate used cash to buy a $1.3 engine, which is expected to be delivered ahead of schedule with a push-in ceremony to be held in April.  

The $2.3 million ladder truck apparatus is designed to provide advanced firefighting and rescue capabilities, featuring: 

• 107’ aerial reach for multi-story and large square footage buildings 

• Ability to pump water at 1,500 GPM (gallons per minute) 

• Equipped with ground ladders, water supply hose, and rescue tools 

• Functions as both an aerial ladder and a standard fire engine, allowing versatile deployment

In addition to fire suppression, it will also carry rescue tools for light rescue operations and vehicle extrications, further enhancing the city’s emergency response resources. 

“The purchase of this aerial ladder truck demonstrates the city’s commitment to Fate DPS and our community to replace and improve our major assets,” said City Manager, Michael Kovacs. DPS Chief Lyle Lombard concurred saying “This ladder truck acquisition ensures that we are well-equipped to handle emergency situations in our growing city and continue providing high levels of public safety.”  

The DPS bond will be completed through three phases: 

Phase 1: Equipment  

Ladder truck purchased. Members of the Fate Fire Department recently visited Kansas to participate in the customization process, which is a common practice allowing cities to establish specific needs for their community. 

Phase 2: Construction of new police station  

The design for the new police station will be awarded at the April City Council meeting with construction scheduled to begin early next year. 

Phase 3: Fire Station Renovations  

The current fire station houses police and fire. When the new police station is built, renovations to the downtown fire station will provide more efficient use of space and better functionality. Additionally, a building the city owns on the south side near our Public Works facility will be retooled into a fully functioning fire station. These renovations will aid in the continued growth of the department, expanding Fate DPS’ capabilities to handle multiple, and larger scale, emergencies.  

With future managed growth coming, Fate DPS and the City of Fate are planning initiatives that would support continued quality levels of public safety at an affordable and low tax rate, for the benefit of our citizens, traveling public, and guests.  

*Current images are representational only, final plans have not been determined.

Submitted by Shelbi Stofer, edited for publication in Blue Ribbon News. Courtesy photos.

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