Crockett authorizes proposals to repair or replace aging ladder truck and to buy police vehicles

The Crockett City Council voted on Aug. 21 to authorize department chiefs to seek proposals for key public-safety vehicles.

Fire Chief Jason reported the ladder truck has been in service 23 years and a recent inspection produced a long report that staff said lists needed repairs. A vendor gave a preliminary high-side figure of $600,000–$700,000 for a full frame-off refurbishment; a brand-new comparable ladder truck list price was cited at $1,300,000. Chief Jason said some immediate repairs could be $100,000, but a full restoration could extend the apparatus’ service life for another 20–25 years.

Council discussed whether to repair now or pursue a full refurbishment or replacement. Members emphasized caution in choosing vendors and asked the chief to solicit multiple proposals and to seek firms beyond the single vendor who provided initial estimates.

The council also authorized the police chief to seek proposals for two additional police vehicles. Staff reported heavy fleet usage, lengthy backorders and that an in‑house upfit by the city mechanic could save an estimated $12,000–$13,000 per vehicle compared with an outside upfitter.

Motions to authorize both chiefs to seek proposals were moved, seconded and approved in open session. Council requested that staff return with firm proposals and cost estimates before committing to major expenditures.