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Ellsworth council approves $22,154 repair for aerial ladder and purchases firefighter boots
Summary
Council approved a $22,154.31 repair for Fire Department Unit 501 to fix a failed swivel and oil leak and authorized purchase of 20 pairs of firefighter boots for $8,780 to replace worn gear.
Ellsworth City Council approved emergency repairs to Fire Department Unit 501 after staff reported a failed swivel causing an oil leak and potential safety concerns, and separately authorized purchase of additional firefighter boots to improve personal protective equipment compliance.
Fire department leadership (Ralph, speaker 11) described images and a vendor quote from Conrad Fire Equipment indicating the swivel and gasket must be replaced; parts are not standard for the older apparatus, and the quoted cost for the additional work is approximately $22,154.31. "It's leaking all the time," Ralph said, explaining the necessity of the repair. Council approved the additional work by voice vote.
Council also considered two quotes for new boots. Staff recommended purchasing 20 pairs of Rocky Brands boots from Delta Fire Inc. for $8,780 (one quote for a higher-end pair was discussed as optional). Council approved the purchase by voice vote to replace the oldest boots and increase safety for responders.
Council briefly discussed warranties and lead times for major apparatus; members noted a brand‑new aerial vehicle could cost roughly $2,000,000 and have multi‑year lead times, making repair the practical near‑term option.
