Westfir council approves $2,850 purchase of two portable fire-suppression tanks

The Westfir City Council voted unanimously on July 14 to approve buying two portable fire-suppression water tanks and pumps, a purchase the mayor said will give the town an earlier initial response capability during wildfires. The motion, moved by Councilor Love and seconded by Councilor Morricade, carried on a 4-0 roll call: Mayor Watson, Councilor Cheatham, Councilor Love and Councilor Morricade all voted "Aye."

Mayor Watson described the units as 1,325-gallon tanks with 7-horsepower motors and hose, at approximately $1,425 per unit for a total near $2,850. He argued the standalone tanks are more flexible than a single trailer-mounted system and can be put on a pickup bed or small trailer. "I feel that we should take responsibility for being the first ones there and to have the equipment," Mayor Watson said, explaining the decision was driven by limited commercial availability and rising prices during fire season.

Council discussion focused on budget and transport. Councilor Morricade noted the purchase will come out of the general fund materials and services (repairs and maintenance) budget and observed, "That leaves us just a little over 2,000 for the year," raising concerns about leaving limited reserve for other building repairs. The council discussed alternatives including buying one tank now and a second next year, seeking grant funding, community fundraising at local events, and acquiring inexpensive used trailers to mount the units.

Technical details in the vendor bid included a 50-foot, 3/4-inch hose with a camlock adapter for future 1-inch hose upgrades; councilors emphasized that larger-diameter hose and stronger pumps would deliver more water at distance. City staff said the vendor could have two units ready for pickup within days if the purchase was approved. The approved motion and vote were recorded as a formal council action.