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Oskaloosa council approves donated‑fund drone for fire department
Summary
The council voted Dec. 10 to allow the fire department to buy a thermal/starlight camera drone using memorial donations, citing search‑and‑rescue, hazmat, and pre‑planning benefits; staff said training and FAA certification will be completed before routine use.
The Oskaloosa City Council on Dec. 10 approved using donated memorial funds to purchase a commercial‑grade drone for the fire department.
Mayor and city staff said the unit, already tested by county public‑safety partners, pairs thermal imaging with a ‘‘starlight’’ camera that produces high‑detail visuals in low light. Fire Department Captain Hurdles told the council the drone would help search‑and‑rescue, hazmat response, fire investigations and pre‑incident planning, and can carry modular payloads such as pinpoint mapping sensors or lightweight life‑jacket drops.
Council members asked about operational limits, training and costs. Captain Hurdles said pilots must pass FAA remote‑pilot testing (a self‑study course and FAA exam) and the department plans to certify at least one or two pilots and then obtain a COA to self‑certify additional operators. He said the selected model carries an IP43 weather rating, can operate in rain and moderate snow, and used four to five batteries in practice for extended operations. Staff said the purchase would be funded from memorial/donated funds attributed to the Bass family.
The council moved and approved the measure by roll call. No monthly vendor fee was reported; staff identified a vendor (Drone Nerds) who offers nationwide technical support and said the unit’s components are manufactured outside China (reported as Vietnam). Officials said maintenance plans and vendor support options will be finalized as part of procurement.
The council’s approval allows the fire department to begin licensing and permitting steps so trained pilots and the required FAA authorizations are in place before the drone is deployed for routine response.
