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Council hears that replacement tanker for 1995 truck is privately owned after mixed procurement steps
Summary
Councilors reviewed the purchase and repair history of a tanker intended for the fire department’s 1995 Ford L9000; a resident who inspected and transported the tank says he owns it and returned the city check because multiple invoices were combined. Chief Heckroth said the city does not own the tank; council requested clarification.
During the committee meeting on April 30, 2026, councilors discussed the acquisition, payment and current repair status of a replacement tank for a 1995 Ford L9000 fire truck.
Chief Heckroth explained how the tank was obtained and installed and confirmed that, according to his understanding presented at the meeting, the City does not currently own the tank. Jerry Middaugh told the committee he personally inspected the tank on March 14, 2025, returned on March 27 to acquire it, used his own funds and transportation for the work, and ultimately did not cash the council check because it contained multiple invoices on one payment. Middaugh said other obligations prevented him from completing the project, that he now owns the tank, and that he has no interest in finishing the build.
Councilor Emily Campbell voiced concern that the council had not been given the full factual record needed to make a decision about the tank. Councilor Doreen Oedy urged that the City Manager, Scott Czasak, be consulted if councilors require clarification of procurement or payment questions. Chief Heckroth said there remains an operational need for a tank and that he will reevaluate options.
The committee did not take a formal vote or direct staff to enter a procurement action during the meeting.
