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Fire chief reports steady calls, replacement truck cost at $500,000 after accident
Summary
Fire Chief Dan Dietz reported Dell Rapids Fire Department call levels roughly match last year, described a vehicle accident that totaled a truck, and said a replacement apparatus came into service at about $500,000 while earlier apparatus cost $225,000 eight years ago. He urged continued support for volunteer recruitment and equipment insurance measures.
Dan Dietz, fire chief for Dell Rapids, told the council the department is on pace with last year’s call volume and that most recent calls remain inside city limits. He reported the department has 25 members—23 full members and two junior firefighters—and said volunteers have contributed hundreds of hours this year.
Dietz described a truck accident earlier this year that declared one apparatus a total loss; the department worked with Rosenbauer to secure a stock truck and put it into service roughly a month after the accident at a cost of $500,000. He contrasted that price with the truck purchased eight years earlier for $225,000 and noted rising apparatus and gear costs (SCBA packs, replacement schedules) drive large capital needs. Dietz said the department recently adjusted insured values for apparatus to avoid large out‑of‑pocket expenses in the event of loss.
Council thanked the chief and asked no further questions; the presentation highlighted the fiscal pressure of large apparatus purchases and the continued reliance on volunteers for operations.
