At Tuesday's County Commission Meeting, Commissioners heard a request for action from Rural Fire District #1.
Request for Action Saline County Rural Fire District #1 requested the signature and if awarded, acceptance of the Local Safety and Security Equipment (LSSE) grant to upgrade their aging tank and pump system on a squad. The application closes on June 30th and is a 15 month grant starting October 1, 2023 to December 31, 2024.
Background: Our volunteer rural fire department play a critical role in ensuring the safety and well-being of our community, and this equipment upgrade is vital for maintaining our firefighting capabilities and enhancing our emergency response services. Saline County Rural Fire District #1 has responded to 141 grassland fire calls in the five years (2018-current) within their response area and through mutual aid. This increased wear and tear on the district's equipment has led to the need to replace the pump and tank before the usual equipment timeline. Saline County and our region have been in drought conditions for most of the last five years, and with increased fuel sources, our county and region have seen more wildland fires.
Budget Impact The replacement pump was quoted at $17,542 and the replacement tank at $7,118, making the entire project $24,660, and the 10% match will be $2,466 for Saline County Rural Fire District 1. The match will be paid out of their special equipment funds.
The motion was approved 5-0.