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Peterborough Fire/Rescue 16 Summer Street Peterborough, NH 03458 Emergency Dial 911 603-924-8090 Business 603-924-8091 Fax |
Article from the 7/24/03 Monadnock Ledger.By Damien Fisher Monadnock Ledger Staff PETERBOROUGH -- Members of the Peterborough Fire and Rescue Department updated the selectmen Tuesday night on their progress in investigating the purchase of a new ladder truck. Lt. Mike Roper and firefighter Jon Hampson presented the different options they have explored since receiving the selectmen's permission to search for a new truck. While purchasing a used vehicle and reconditioning the current ladder truck were investigated, the Ladder Committee, along with members of the Budget Committee, decided that the best value for taxpayers would be a new truck, built to the department's specifications. Hampson said the town could save between $30,000 to $40,000 on a new truck if it is purchased on a demo plan. That would allow the manufacturer to build a truck to the department's specifications, and then use the truck as a demonstration model for other departments for approximately six months. The Ladder Committee, though still exploring all possible options, tested eight trucks in town, and has identified the ladder truck manufactured by E-1 as the best value. The price of an E-1 HP 100 Ladder truck is $577,000 brand new, and $547,000 on a demo plan. The members of the Ladder Committee said it would be the best value, and should last 25 years. Chief William Naugle said the next step in the process is to continue investigating financing options, such as a cash purchase, lease, or lease purchase. Next the committee would finalize specifications before sending bid requests to vendors by Aug. 1. Chief Naugle thanked the all-volunteer committee for its hard work, and he also thanked Gordon Kemp and John Franklin from the Budget Committee for their help. Hampson said, "This has been an open process, and I hope it continues that way." Hampson told the Ledger that he tries to update the progress the Ladder Committee is making on the departments website, www.firerescue.us. |
