Port Hardy Fire Rescue could soon be rolling out in a shiny new $1.1 million fire truck, if residents agree.
At their regular meeting July 19, District of Port Hardy approved going ahead with the purchase of a new Quint engine which includes pump, water tank, fire hose, aerial device, and ground ladders.
The fire department is hoping to add various safety components including a ‘business class cab’ which allows six firefighters room tomove around to put on bulky equipment, seat belts, and air bags.
The ladder will allow the department to reach fourth floors, which was a recommendation in the 2014 Fire Service Review.
The new truck has been approved in the 2016 budget. The district plans to finance the truck by borrowing up to $1.1 million from the Municipal Finance Authority with a five-year renewable term over 12 years. The interest rate would be variable and the payments would be about $100,000 a year.
This purchase is being done through the ‘Alternative Approval Process’ rather than the more costly and time consuming referendum format. If more than 10 per cent of electors oppose borrowing the money, a referendum will have to be held.
A request for proposals for the new fire engine has been sent out, and they will be presented to council “when they come back,” said Chief Administrative Officer Allision McCarrick.
