Grant will enable Lopez to buy new pumper truck

The Lopez Island Fire Department will be able to buy a new pumper truck, thanks to a $175,500 grant from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.

The department’s existing pumper truck is nearly 40 years old, having been manufactured in 1966.

Lopez Fire Chief Rob Miesen said he didn’t know if the $175,500 would cover the entire cost of the pumper truck. That won’t become clear until after fire commissioners approve bid specifications, then review those that are submitted by prospective sellers. If additional money is needed to purchase what Miesen says will be “the best vehicle that Lopez needs,” the department will be able to borrow from an existing loan that was obtained last year so the department could purchase a limited amount of apparatus and equipment. It has since been refinanced at a lower rate. Nevertheless, Miesen hopes that the loan won’t be needed.

It could be as long as a year before a new pumper truck is purchased and available for service. Before it goes out to bid, a committee of department personnel will come up with a design that best fits the needs of the department, Miesen said.

Funding is being provided by the 2004 Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program. Under the terms of the grant, Lopez is required to provide a 10 percent match.

Orcas recently received a $67,768 award, with the money going to improve firefighter safety by replacing air cylinders and bunker gear clothing, and by providing medical exams for members of the department.

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