As work begins on Wiscasset’s next municipal budget, department heads have submitted their requests for purchases to make from capital reserve. Selectmen have gotten their first look at 2017-18 requests.

Capital reserve is not raised through tax dollars. At the close of Jan. 31, the market value of the account managed by the Portland investment firm of H.M. Payson stood at $10,337,811.

Several years ago, selectmen adopted a policy of withdrawing no more than 3.5 percent. Last year, the board recommended taking 4.5 percent to fund a number of expenditures; all were approved by voters.

In the police department, Chief Jeffrey Lange is asking for $14,000 to purchase new computers and other office equipment. Fire Chief T.J. Merry has requested $1.55 million, most of which would replace two fire trucks: the aging ladder truck and a rescue vehicle.

The Thibeault ladder truck was purchased new in 1989 for $315,000. The truck has had mechanical problems including losing a rear wheel during a training exercise in 2015. Quotes for a truck have not been released but could run as high as $1 million, according to Merry. The new rescue truck will cost an estimated $500,000.

Toby Martin, EMS director, has asked for $262,000, including $200,000 to replace the older of the two ambulances and $40,000 to buy 23 sets of extrication clothing.

Public Works Director Doug Fowler is requesting $705,000, most of it to replace two aging GMC dump trucks; a 1995 model,  and a 1996 one. The price for both is estimated at $320,000. Fowler wants another $375,000 for road repairs including paving, and addressing sinking catch basins and manholes.

Treatment Plant Supervisor William Rines' list totals $355,500 including $70,000 to replace three aeration blowers, $25,000 to buy a new portable pump and $20,000 for the installation of standby power.

Transfer Station Supervisor Ron Lear has asked for $29,500: $12,500 to install a generator transfer switch and another $17,000 to replace worn asphalt ramps with cement ones in front of outside collection bins.

Capital improvements sought for the town office total $191,000 and include $100,000 to upgrade the telephone system.

Requests for the municipal airport total $122,135, including $24,000 for a utility truck.

Parks and Recreation Director Todd Souza seeks $101,000 including $40,000 to replace lockers and $12,000 to build a child care room.

At the June 2016 election, voters approved all 10 capital reserve articles, totaling $486,430. Among these were $30,000 for a new SUV police cruiser, $40,463 to pay off year five of the 10-year municipal pier debt, and $177,000 for public works paving.