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Dayton staff locate used ladder truck; council OKs inspection but notes budget timing
Summary
Staff told the council they found an 18‑year‑old Pierce ladder truck offered by Hopkins and asked permission to spend $1,000 for an inspection; council members agreed staff should gather details but said the 2026 budget constraints may delay purchase decisions.
A city staff member told the Dayton City Council on Jan. 13 that the city has identified a used Pierce ladder truck being offered by the city of Hopkins and requested permission to spend $1,000 for an inspection before pursuing acquisition.
Staff said the ladder truck is about 18 years old and has been used primarily for ISO/mutual aid; Hopkins has another ladder and is considering selling this unit in the spring. "I found a used ladder truck. I have not taken a look at it yet. I did make a request to McQueen to get an understanding of the cost to... do inspection and whatnot, and they gave me a quote back of $1,000," the staff member said.
Council members responded that they were open to staff gathering information and that $1,000 for an inspection would be reasonable, but several members cautioned that the 2026 budget is largely set and that any acquisition this fiscal year would face funding constraints. Several council members suggested staff pursue inspections, verify year, maintenance history and anticipated transfer timing (staff said Hopkins may sell around April/May), then report back so the council can consider options during budget deliberations.
No formal purchase was authorized at the meeting. Staff said Chief Hendrickson and staff will continue to explore funding options, inspections and timelines and will return to the council with details if a viable acquisition is identified.
The council’s comments reflected a preference for a used purchase if it meets safety and cost criteria but emphasized the need for full information before committing public funds.
