URGENT UPDATE: The Covington Fire Department is urgently seeking city approval to purchase a used fire truck for $310,000 while waiting for a new $2.3 million truck that is expected to take four years to manufacture. Fire Chief Corey Deye made this request at the Board of Commissioners meeting on March 3, emphasizing the dire need for reliable equipment.
As the department’s current aerial truck, dating back to 1994, requires approximately $30,000 just to return it to service, officials are concerned about the ongoing costs and reliability of such an old vehicle. “Our 1994 truck has significant mechanical history, and we are worried about the wisdom of continuing to invest in it,” Deye stated.
The proposed purchase involves a 2009 tractor-drawn aerial truck from the St. Matthews Fire Protection District in Louisville, the same manufacturer as the new truck. This interim vehicle will allow the department to maintain operational readiness while waiting for the new unit, which was approved for purchase in February.
Currently, Covington Fire’s main aerial truck, known as Truck 7, is also facing challenges. Mayor Ron Washington noted that this 2004 model has become increasingly difficult to maintain, costing the department around $90,000 over the last two years. If the trend continues, the total maintenance costs may reach $180,000 over the next four years.
The Board of Commissioners is set to vote on the used truck purchase next week, with expectations for swift approval as it will relieve pressure on the aging fleet. “If approved, the used truck will serve as our main aerial vehicle, allowing us to reserve the older models, thus reducing wear and tear,” Deye explained.
Moreover, Deye highlighted the advantages of acquiring a tiller truck, which is designed for better maneuverability in Covington’s narrow streets. “Tiller trucks can reach third-story windows, while our pumpers are limited to second-story access,” he added. This feature is critical for effective firefighting in urban settings.
As the department prepares for a vote next week, the urgency of this request underscores the need for reliable fire response capabilities in Covington. The community’s safety hinges on timely decisions regarding fire equipment. Stay tuned as this story develops.
