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Putnam County reviews ambulance bids and 911 tower repairs; Russellville siren funding discussed
Summary
County officials reviewed multiple ambulance bids with varying lead times and equipment, approved taking bids under advisement, and approved a 911 tower beacon quote pending Council funds. The Town of Russellville requested trustee funds to purchase a tornado siren; the county attorney is reviewing allowable uses.
Putnam County officials on March 16 reviewed competitive bids for a replacement ambulance, received updated quotes for 911 tower beacon repairs, and discussed using trustee funds for a tornado siren in Russellville.
Director Kelly Russ presented four vendors' bids for a replacement ambulance; the lowest bid presented was $270,234 (Hoosier Fire Equipment) but that model lacked a refrigerator, while other bids ranged up to $362,065 depending on vehicle type and equipment. One vendor, Fire Services, Inc., is the county's current provider and faces an August 2026 lead time for new units. Commissioner Rick Woodall moved to take the bids under advisement so staff can evaluate specifications and lead times; the commissioners approved the motion unanimously.
Emergency communications lead Dave Clodfelter reported he received a new quote from Commercial Radio Services for a dual red-and-white beacon at $14,150 (white-only $12,438) and recommended the dual beacon; Commissioners approved the recommendation pending County Council approval of funds. Renee Wyatt reported speaking with County Attorney Jim Ensley about using trustee funds to help the Town of Russellville purchase a tornado siren; Ensley said he is working with her to confirm whether trustee funds can be used for that purpose.
Next steps: Ambulance bids will be evaluated further (lead time and equipment comparisons); the 911 beacon repair and any siren purchase hinge on County Council approval or legal confirmation of trustee fund use.
