Purchase of Replacement Engine Approved

SEELEY LAKE – The Seeley Lake Fire Board approved $50,000 for the purchase of a used Type 6 Wildland Fire Engine at a special meeting June 13.

Fire Chief Dave Lane took the Department’s Type 6 engine 716 out of service earlier this spring after noticing it had several fractures in the frame. One of the fractures was at the rear shackle.

“That is a huge safety issue,” said Lane.

He said the frame would need to be replaced, making it not cost effective to fix. Vice Chair Gary Lewis said that the frame can be welded but then it will not meet the safety standards required for an emergency vehicle.

Recognizing the importance of having a wildland engine for the community and as a potential revenue source for the department, Lane presented the board with a few replacement options that were less than $50,000 at the May board meeting. He felt that the rest of the equipment will need to be upgraded in the next three-five years but there is nothing more pressing than the Type VI.

At the special board meeting, Lane presented the board with four different options since the engines he presented to the board in May had sold. He said he had gotten input from a few of the other members to help him with his decision.

Board Chair Scott Kennedy said they have $124,000 in the new vehicle fund.

The board unanimously approved Lane to spend $50,000 on the new Type VI engine. Board member Connie Clark requested he purchase one that is a four door and an automatic transmission since that could be driven by more of the volunteers. Lewis agreed that would be ideal.

Lane said that if he can find a four door, automatic within the price range, that is what he would purchase.

Lane said the old Type VI will be converted into a plow truck. Last year the district spent more than $5,000 in plowing so he feels it will save the department money.

Lane is not concerned about the safety of using the engine plowing because of the speed at which it will be operated. When questioned about the price of the plow, Lane said he is pursuing some affordable options.

The regularly scheduled board meetings are held at the Seeley Lake Fire Hall the third Tuesday of the month at 6 p.m. For the agenda, minutes and any special meeting notices, visit http://www.seeleyfire.org.