Heard County to buy 2006 mobile fire training unit for $50,625 using SPLOST funds

Chief Steve Wirth told the board that the existing burn building used for firefighter training is in severe disrepair and unsafe. He presented a portable 2006 Pro‑Safe Mobile Fire Training Unit being sold by Oklahoma City; he said it was originally purchased new in 2006 for $515,000 and is now offered for sale for $45,000, with a buyer's premium making the county cost $50,625.

After discussion about the condition of the existing burn building and the advantages of acquiring a mobile unit that could be used locally and for regional training, the board unanimously approved purchasing the unit using SPLOST funds. Chief Wirth said the county plans to set the unit up as a stationary resource and host trainings for other departments.