Board accepts AES-funded pickup and authorizes pumper exchange; city to insure and maintain gifted pickup

Fire Chief Don Hines told the board AES — as part of a settlement agreement — is offering to fund two vehicles for the city’s fire fleet: an emergency response pickup to improve north‑side response and funding toward replacement of an aging reserve pumper. The plan discussed would exchange a 34‑year‑old city pumper for the township’s 35‑year‑old unit and apply salvage/trade value toward a new pumper.

Board members noted the vehicles exceed $150,000 in value but are funded entirely by AES, meaning no city capital outlay is required. The board voted to accept the pickup into the city fleet (with the city carrying insurance and maintenance) and authorized the pumper exchange and salvage/trade arrangement. Staff said procurement would follow to obtain at least three quotes for the new pumper, and delivery timelines vary by chassis type (from ~180 days for non‑custom to 14–16 months for a custom chassis).

The motions carried by voice vote with no recorded opposition.