MT NEWS
I am pleased to announce that the Commissioners recently authorized purchase of a new fire truck, (a ladder truck), to replace our aging existing truck. While this purchase was anticipated in our 10 year old comprehensive plan for the fire rescue department, recognizing that things may have changed over the years, we engaged an independent professional review of this issue, (review attached). This review pointed out some developing problems with the existing truck as well as areas of the Township in which people were at risk because of inadequacies in our existing equipment. Since we are committed to providing the best public safety we can provide, we have ordered a new Pierce Arrow ladder truck at a cost of $1.29 million dollars. These trucks are very expensive and among the several trucks purchased this year by neighboring fire companies; this is one of the least expensive. Since the new truck will be a multi-tasked vehicle, it will be equipped to handle several needs which allows us to avoid the purchase of another planned for vehicle and save the approximately $750,000 cost associated with that vehicle. In another piece of good news, our recent decision to refinance a portion of the Townships debt will result in a savings over ten years of approximately 1.3 million dollars, which will coincide with the payment plan for the truck, thus offsetting any potential negative impact on the Township’s budget overall. The Commissioners, wishing to avoid any inaccurate rumors that may circulate in the community are happy to share this factual account and are available to any resident who may have additional questions.
Albert Kling, Vice President
Board of Commissioners/Fire Council Liaison