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Van Horn Fire Department seeks county commitment for gear and new truck; board gives preliminary support
Summary
Van Horn Fire Department requested county preapproval for two projects — about $35,000 in wildland firefighting gear and bids for a new fire truck estimated around $500,000 — and the board indicated informal support pending invoices and formal paperwork.
Representatives for the Van Horn Fire Department asked the Benton County Board of Supervisors for a preapproval or commitment on two pending projects: a purchase of lighter-weight wildland firefighting gear (about $35,000) and soliciting bids for a new fire truck, which the department estimated could cost in the neighborhood of $500,000.
The department representative described the wildland gear as lighter, lower-heat equipment suited for forest and fast-moving fires and noted many neighboring departments already use similar gear. He said the truck cost estimate is preliminary and that formal bids and firm written estimates should arrive in the coming weeks.
Board members said they generally supported the requests but emphasized the county would need formal invoices and paperwork before taking a final vote to spend funds. One supervisor said they could not vote to expend funds until invoices were presented but offered a “thumbs up” and “blessing” to the projects in principle while staff work out budgeting details. Finance staff reminded the board that ARPA and other funding sources require invoices and resolutions with exact dollar amounts before payment.
Nut graf: The Van Horn Fire Department requested an informal county commitment to help with initial budgeting. Supervisors provided preliminary support but required documentation and formal action (invoices, a resolution or contract) before releasing or allocating county funds.
Details and next steps
- Wildland gear: Department asked the board to consider supporting a roughly $35,000 purchase. Board members voiced support in concept but said final approval will require invoices and a resolution showing exact amounts.
- New fire truck: Department said estimates suggest a cost “give or take $500,000”; staff expect formal estimates in the next few weeks. Board members advised the department to gather bids and return with firm figures and required documentation.
- Funding mechanics: County staff said they typically require invoices and a formal resolution before approving county payments. If ARPA or other special funds are used, staff emphasized following fund-specific procedures.
Ending: The board encouraged the fire department to return with written estimates and invoices so the county can process any required resolutions and payments; no binding county appropriation was recorded at the meeting.
