The lowest price isn’t always the best one.
The District of Coldstream has decided to go with the second lowest bid for a new pumper fire truck.
“Several pieces of equipment were left out of the (lowest) bid and when they were included, it would be slightly higher than the bid from Hub, which was all inclusive,” said Trevor Seibel, chief administrative officer.
Hub Fire Engines and Equipment presented a price of $444,012 while the two other bids were $436,516 and $558,840.
The 2015 capital budget includes the replacement of the pumper truck at the Lavington fire hall.
Farm Friends endorsed
Coldstream is rallying behind a program that assists people with mental health and substance abuse issues.
Council will write a letter of support for the Mental Illness Family Support Centre’s Farm Friends program.
“This will help them with their funding (applications),” said Mayor Jim Garlick of the group seeking grants from other agencies.
The program operates at Patchwork Farms at Okanagan College.
“It is important to our funder for this program, the Community Action Initiative, that we show that our community is aware of this innovative program and supports its goal of offering inclusive and accessible programming that supports families affected by ental illness or substance abuse issues,” said Dianne Huster, MIFSC manager.
Community groups supported
Coldstream taxes are being directed towards some community organizations.
District council has approved a number of grants-in-aid for 2015.
They include $1,200 for the Lavington Community Association and $1,000 each for the Friends of Kalamalka Lake Provincial Park and the Society for the Protection of Kalamalka Lake.
There is also $500 each for the Vernon Winter Carnival Society and the Ribbons of Green Trails Society.
