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Oscoda County boards explores 50/50 cost-sharing for $46,000 extrication tools for Tri-Town Fire
Summary
Fire Chief Kevin Marino told commissioners the department needs new battery-operated hydraulic extrication tools to cut modern vehicle materials; estimated cost is about $46,000. The board directed staff to work on a county/fire department cost-sharing plan but took no funding vote.
Fire Chief Kevin Marino told the Oscoda County Board of Commissioners on March 10 that Tri-Town Fire needs new battery-operated hydraulic extrication tools, commonly referred to as "Jaws of Life," to safely and effectively cut modern, high-strength vehicle materials.
"The current equipment is inadequate for cutting modern, hardened materials in vehicle extrications," Marino said, and described the recommended tools as necessary to improve emergency response times and rescuer safety. EMS Director Robert Stankiewicz expressed support for the upgrade.
Chief Marino estimated the cost of the battery-operated equipment at approximately $46,000. Treasurer William Kendall told the board that an existing budget deficit makes a direct, one-time county payment difficult. Commissioner Charles E. Varner, Jr. proposed a 50/50 cost-sharing arrangement with the county and suggested relying on mutual aid from surrounding counties in the interim while a funding plan is developed.
Rather than vote to purchase the equipment immediately, commissioners directed the fire department and County Administrator Michelle Knepp to collaborate on a viable cost-sharing solution and to return with recommendations. No final appropriation or contract award was made at the March 10 meeting.
