Yankton commission approves $874,980 fire engine purchase; mayor abstains

The Yankton City Commission on Aug. 25 approved the purchase of a custom E1 fire engine from North Central Emergency Vehicles for $874,980 through the Sourcewell cooperative purchasing program.

The approval came after discussion about timing of payment, equipment lifecycle, call-volume changes and vehicle color. Mayor Villanueva and one commissioner abstained from the final vote; the motion passed on roll call.

Commission discussion focused first on payment timing and contract terms. Finance Officer Yardley said, according to the contract, payment is not due until the apparatus arrives. City Attorney Dan Turner confirmed the city had earlier been told upfront payment might be required but that Sourcewell clarified payment on delivery is acceptable.

Chief Linky explained operational reasons for replacing the engine, saying changes in department practice and response profiles had increased apparatus responses. "Past practice was for apparatus to either not respond or for volunteers to go to the station and ask what apparatus should be taken. The culture that we are developing…