Pickens County approves Station 10 expansion and buys brush truck after community raises funds

Pickens County commissioners on Wednesday approved an expansion to Fire Station 10 and authorized purchase of a brush truck, actions county leaders said will improve response in a high-elevation volunteer area.

The board approved the low construction bid of $62,640 from Galloway Construction and Consulting Inc. to add a bay to Station 10 and accepted a single-source purchase of a 2024 F-550 Alpine-series brush truck from Outback Fire Apparatus for $183,399. Commissioners approved both items by motion and voice vote.

Clayton Prebble, speaking for the Wildcat community volunteers who have supported Station 10, told the commissioners the fundraising campaign exceeded its goal: "We had a goal of a 100,000. We've well exceeding that and consistent with our pledge to match the funds." He and other community representatives said they delivered $131,000 to help cover costs.

Chair (unnamed) noted the county will use designated fire-service funds for remaining costs and said he intends that citizens present checks when the county approves spending: "When we approve spending money, we need somebody to come and hand a check."

The board and community members framed the donations as intended to keep the volunteer station active, reduce local fire insurance rates and preserve property in the surrounding area. County staff said the proposed expansion would provide covered parking for the new apparatus.

The next steps are contracting with the selected construction firm and completing the vehicle procurement. Commissioners did not set a public deadline for construction; staff will manage procurement and scheduling in coordination with the volunteer station leadership.

Votes at a glance: expansion bid approved (motion carried by voice vote); brush truck purchase approved (motion carried by voice vote).