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Officials weigh $200,000 'scorpion' blocker truck to protect fire apparatus at interstate scenes
Summary
After recent crashes that damaged department apparatus, county officials and volunteer departments discussed buying a purpose‑built attenuator/blocker truck (estimated around $200,000) to protect fire trucks at interstate incidents; commissioners asked staff to research used options and insurance/logistics before deciding.
Multiple speakers raised concerns about fire apparatus exposed at interstate crash scenes and proposed acquiring an attenuator or 'scorpion' truck to protect county and volunteer units. One commissioner noted the high replacement cost when a fire truck is struck and urged the court to consider a lower‑cost blocker that could shield a primary apparatus.
A department representative said vendors quoted a government‑purchase price near $200,000 and suggested exploring used equipment first. Commissioners asked staff to research market values and the logistics of shared operation, insurance and whether volunteers could operate the vehicle. They also discussed potential automatic aid and dual‑operational models with nearby city agencies for interstate coverage.
No purchase decision was made; the court asked staff to present cost options (used vs. new), insurability and operational agreements at the budget finalization meeting.
