By Don Urquhart, Times Chronicle
Osoyoos Council has approved the purchase of a new fire rescue truck from International Truck Body (BC) to a maximum budget of $350,000 (excluding GST).
The purchase had gained pre-budget approval during a May 24, 2022 council meeting but approval to award the contract and requisite loan for the purchase was needed from council.
Presenting the proposal to council, Osoyoos Fire Chief Corey Kortmeyer said the new rescue truck was needed to replace an existing 1997 International Superior rescue truck. “This 25-year- old unit has passed its life expectancy and is in need of replacement.”
He also highlighted the fact that the current vehicle poses an increased risk for firefighter safety because there are no passenger restraint systems (airbags) and the current “lap belts” are no longer acceptable means of passenger restraint.
Delivery time is 52 weeks from the date of agreement.
“Do we pay on delivery or do we have to pay up front?” was the question from Mayor Sue McKortoff. The town will borrow for the down payment of say $100,000 and then borrow again when the final amount is due, clarified Director of Finance/Deputy CAO Jim Zakall.
Councillor Jim King asked if International Truck Body was the cheapest proposal submitted. “Well, there was only one proponent,” replied Kortmeyer.
