Bradford County approves applying for federal grant to replace aging fire tanker, agrees 10% local match

The Bradford County Board of County Commissioners voted to authorize submission of an Assistance to Firefighters Grant to replace a fire tanker and to provide the required 10% local match for the project.

Fire Chief Carter told the board the tanker replacement would address mechanical and availability problems across the county’s fleet. He said the vehicle estimate is “just over $610,000” and that the grant requires a 10% local match. Chief Carter noted the grant deadline is upcoming and there is no guarantee of award.

Commissioners questioned reliance on mutual aid, the condition of existing apparatus and alternatives such as purchasing surplus equipment from other counties. Chief Carter said staff search surplus auctions and govdeals listings but that older vehicles (for example the city’s available unit described in the discussion as a 1989) are often less reliable than a newer replacement.

Commissioner Dortch moved to authorize the grant application and to budget the 10% match; Commissioner Andrews seconded. The board voted in favor by voice vote (reported as five in favor; none opposed).

The motion authorizes staff to proceed with the application and to include the match in next year’s grant match budgeting if the county is awarded funds. Chief Carter said the county would not pay the match unless the grant is awarded.