BRUCEDALE – Guelph-Eramosa township council has pre-approved the spending of up to $750,000 in the 2020 capital budget, allowing the fire department to order a new pumper truck.
Deputy fire chief Jim Petrik made the request to council on July 8, saying that replacement of a 1999 pumper had already been delayed twice, in order to build up reserve funds.
Normally the department tries to replace trucks after a 15-year service life, he said.
Trucks often take 14-16 months to build after being ordered, so ordering one now makes it possible to get delivery in 2020.
Since the payment will come entirely from the equipment reserve fund, there will be no direct impact on property taxation.
The 1999 pumper will be sold at auction, with an expected price of $50,000, which will offset the new purchase.
The new pumper will be able to carry 1,000 gallons of water, compared to 500 with the old truck.
Petrik said the ability to pump a large amount of water upon arrival at a fire is important, since modern homes burn more quickly than older ones.
