Lorain Fire Department to accept donated rescue boat with up to $200,000 in city funding

The City of Lorain Board of Control on July 15 approved an emergency request from the Lorain Fire Department to acquire a donated rescue boat from the Park Foundation, with City funds available for required surveys, repairs, or outfitting up to $200,000 from G/L account 2585.S500.6700.1000 (Fire Levy Capital Outlay).

According to the Board memorandum, the boat must be 25–31 feet long, have two 225-horsepower outboard motors (minimum), include a safe boat platform, have closed-cell foam in good condition, include a clean survey dated within three months of sale, and come with a trailer. The purchase was authorized under Ordinance 079-26, which the minutes record as passed on July 6, 2026 and approved July 7, 2026. Mayor Jack Bradley moved to approve the request and Safety/Service Director Rey Carrion seconded; the motion carried unanimously.

City staff said they will work to locate a vessel that meets the listed specifications before finalizing purchase. The Board recorded the emergency classification and noted the department’s responsibility to verify the vessel survey and condition prior to closing.