ISHPEMING, Mich. (WZMQ) – The Ishpeming Fire Department has a new addition to it’s truck fleet this month, all thanks to a grant from the state.
After concerns about the age of one of its main fire engines, state represenatives took charge of gathering the necessary funds to have it replaced. WZMQ 19 spoke to representative Karl Bohnak about his role in the initiative.
“In the winter of 2025 I visited Ishpeming and they told me they needed a new fire truck,” he said. “One of their commmissioners had actually testified the need for it, and it was approved by the city for a formal request through the state.”
This request was classified as a Legislatively Directed Spending Item, where each house member selects a few projects to fund within their district. In this case, the City of Ishpeming was approved by the Appropriations Committee for around $900,000 last year.
The new Michigan made truck can carry 1,000 gallons of water, compared to its predecessor’s 750, with stronger pressure capabilities as well. The upgrades tie into what Bohnak says is important to maintain throughout the Upper Peninsula.
“There is a great need in every community in my district to update infrastructure, public safety, and fire engines, and we’ll keep plugging away,” he said.
The 30-year-old fire truck being replaced will be auctioned off once the Ishpeming City Council approves a bid.
