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Council sets aside up to $50,000 to help Pigeon Township volunteer fire department acquire replacement truck
Summary
The council agreed to appropriate up to $50,000 from the council budget to help Pigeon Township Volunteer Fire Department purchase a newer truck; the board also asked staff to draft a letter supporting improved interstate access at the department’s station location.
Warrick County council members voted to appropriate up to $50,000 from the council’s budget to assist the Pigeon Township Volunteer Fire Department in acquiring a replacement truck.
Trustee Mike Mason and Pigeon Township representatives described the department’s narrow fleet and the need for a newer vehicle that could reduce response times on the interstate. Mason said the department currently must drive roughly five miles out of the way to reach the interstate and that a gated access adjacent to the interstate would shorten response routes; he asked the council to support pursuing a gate or other access improvements.
Commissioners and council members said the council cannot make a straight donation; instead, any payment must be processed as a claim or share of an invoice for equipment purchased by or on behalf of the department. A motion was made to appropriate up to $50,000 for the truck and to direct staff to prepare a letter regarding access improvements; the motion passed 7–0.
Officials discussed the department’s reliance on thrifted or donated apparatus and volunteer maintenance. Trustees said the township and the fire department will pursue additional funding and that the council’s appropriation is intended to supplement local funds and grants.
