Strong demand, limited supply of trucks add up to high prices
IMLAY CITY — Fire Chief Rick Horton on Tuesday, Dec. 6, updated city commissioners of ongoing challenges for the fire department.
Chief Horton reported that the fire department has a current roster of 16 firefighters, including one on leave.
He noted that recruitment is an ongoing challenge and one that affects fire services across the state.
Horton said the fire department’s existing fleet of fire trucks is aging and requested that two new trucks be purchased within the coming years.
Imlay City Fire Lt. Jeff Marceau informed commissioners that he has been researching options for a new pumper truck and a replacement ladder truck.
Marceau pointed out that once ordered, it will take about 24-30 months for a new truck to be delivered.
Following some discussion, commissioners voted 5-0 to move forward with the purchase of a 2022 three-quarter ton work truck for the DPW.
The cost of the truck had risen more than $3,700 from its original price due to added costs from the manufacturer.
Commissioner Al Ramirez advised fellow commissioners that the cost of a new truck will likely rise in the future.
He attributed the rising costs to high demand and a diminished supply of new trucks.
Audit approved
In another matter, the commission accepted the 2021-2022 audit report provided by King & King CPAs.
Wes Messing of King & King presented a four-year comparison summary of the city’s audit numbers and financial stability.
In other business, City Manager Craig Horton reminded commissioners of a proposed zoning ordinance amendment at the Dec. 20 meeting.
Horton further noted that the next M-53 Corridor meeting will take place in April 2023 at the Imlay City Fire Hall.
Tom Wearing started at the Tri-City Times in 1989, covering the Village of Capac as a beat reporter. He later served stints as assistant editor and editor. Today, he covers Imlay City and Almont as a staff writer. He enjoys music and plays drums and sings with various musical groups in the Detroit Metropolitan area.
