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Committee backs recommendation to buy jet boat for river and flats response
Summary
The Finance Committee recommended the assembly approve purchase of an 18-foot jet boat (listed at CA$50,715) to improve search-and-rescue and flood response on the Daee River and flats; staff said the boat is trailer-ready and suitable for shallow flats operations.
The Finance Committee recommended the assembly approve purchase of an 18-foot jet boat to improve emergency response on the Daee River and surrounding flats.
Manager Ryan presented the proposed vessel (listed at CA$50,715, about US$36,000), saying it is a console-steered jet boat with a trailer that can be launched on the flats and has a shallow draft better suited to pulling people out of shallow water and mud than heavier outboard-driven landing craft. Ryan said the boat emerged as a cost-effective option compared with larger craft that are more technically demanding to operate and train crew for.
Committee members asked about capability and draft. The manager said the jet boat can be run in inches of water and can be dragged off if briefly grounded, while some landing-craft-style vessels have three to four feet of draft and are more likely to get stuck. One member cited recent incidents on the Daee Road where the ability to reach residents quickly would be critical.
A motion to recommend purchase to the assembly was moved and seconded and passed by voice vote.
Next steps: Staff will forward the recommendation and purchase details to the assembly for final approval and procurement follow-up.
