Cramahe Township Council approved the purchase of the vehicle after extensive research was done by a Fire Department selection committee. The price included $6,900 of options designed to make the truck safer and more efficient.
The first choice cost $5,000 more than the second choice but had features which outweighed the slight increase. The preferred 2009 model pumper is a heavier vehicle, designed to carry 1,000 gallons of water, rather than 750 gallons. It also has an enclosed area to store the ladders and equipment and a better hose setup. In the $231,500 model the equipment is inaccessible when the ladders are pulled down.
The purchasing committtee was able to negotiate favourable prices for an additional foam system, extra shelving and an extra divider for the hoses. They got the axes and wrench sets mounted on the truck and a heat pan installed under the pump so it doesn't freeze. A traffic advisor will be mounted on the back of the truck. A metal piece will be installed on the back of the cab to protect the operator, and safe running boards will be installed.
The new truck is expected to arrive around the beginning of March.
It will be paid for through $210,000 now in the fire department reserves. The balance will come from the 2010 budget.
The township may keep the old truck, depending on research being done by Public Works Director, Barry Thrasher and Fire Chief, Jim Harris.
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