Board approves Clinch Mountain Fire Department purchase of new air packs, funds from contingency

The Washington County Board of Supervisors approved a request from Clinch Mountain Fire Department to purchase new self-contained breathing apparatus (demo units) at a quoted cost of $47,962.78.

Supervisor Pennington described the units as demo models that provide lighting and integrated cameras and said the equipment would be effective for an expected service life of about 15 years. Staff noted the units are being offered at a reduced cost as demo units rather than new units, producing substantial savings for the department.

The purchase will be paid in three equal installments under the vendor’s financing arrangement. Supervisors asked staff to check whether the county can avoid vendor financing (and related interest) by using reserves or other county financing to cover the vendor payments; staff agreed to check with the finance company and report back. The board approved the purchase and the funding approach by voice vote.

County finance staff later reported the contingency balance after approval and supervisors directed the department to proceed with procurement paperwork consistent with the board’s vote.