Holyrood’s new fire vehicle due for arrival this fall

By Mark Squibb

Councillors in Holyrood in the last meeting voted unanimously to borrow from the bank to purchase a new fire rescue vehicle.

Councillor Laura Crawley put forth the motion to request ministerial approval to borrow $217,517 from RBC for a term of five to seven years at a rate of 5.8 percent with a monthly payment of $3,158 to complete the purchase.

Crawley said the need to borrow the money did not take staff by surprise, as the need was acknowledged in Budget 2024.

The Town has also received $100,000 from the provincial government to put towards the vehicle, which was priced at $317,517.

The fire department will use the new truck to respond to medical emergencies and auto accidents, freeing up the pumper truck’s availability and saving it from wear and tear.

Council hopes the new truck will reach emergency scenes quicker and save the Town money in the long run.

“The fire department are absolutely delighted that this is all signed, sealed, delivered, and approved,” said Mayor Gary Goobie. “Now, we’re just waiting on the delivery date.”

Crawley said residents will also be delighted when they learn that emergency services will be provided quicker and for less money.

Councillor Bruce King, as per his public safety committee update, said interim Fire Chief Leslie Kenny had recently spoken with Ford Garry Fire Trucks, the Manitoba company supplying the rig, and was told that barring any unforeseen circumstances, the truck will be delivered on September 30.

King allowed there will probably be an open house once the truck is delivered so that residents can come out and see it.

Council initially approved the motion to buy a new truck back in November 2023 at a total cost, including taxes and delivery, at the above quoted price of $317,517.