OXFORD – According to a release obtained from the Oxford Fire Department, a proposal for the purchase of a new combination 70-foot elevating aerial platform/pumper apparatus with a price tag of approximately $850,000 is being brought to the table, and village leaders are seeking public input.

The release places the cost for a used 3 to 5-year-old or a new demonstrator apparatus is staggering, but would cost the fire district about $250,000 less than buying new at $1.1 million. Conversely, it would cost $850,000 less to do nothing.

A public information meeting has been scheduled to inform the public why village lawmakers feel that the proposed purchase is the right balance between keeping its current fleet unchanged and planning to replace aged or inoperable fire apparatus.

The informational meeting will be held at the Oxford Fire Station at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 3. The meeting is to address community questions and concerns about the need, cost, and efficiency of the proposed apparatus.

“The Town of Oxford and portions of Smithville and Preston contract for fire service with the Village Fire Department. Consequently, it is important to provide information to all areas affected by the proposed purchase,” the release states.