The department received a $216,846 grant from FEMA’s Assistance to Firefighters Program to help pay for the new breathing equipment. The total cost of the project is $238,530, and the city will cover $21,684 of the cost. FEMA requires departments to provide a 10 percent match. Fire Chief Mark Ashworth said city leaders on Monday night approved advertising for bids/proposals.  

Ellis County firefighters said just in the last three years, there have been a significant amount of wildfires. They know just how important it is to be prepared, and Ellis County is about to upgrade an important piece of equipment to battle the flames. The economic-friendly truck will hold 500 gallons of water, include phone capability, generator, air pack systems and more.

The truck under consideration is currently garaged in Lakeside, California. Owned and operated by the Barona Band of Mission Indians, it would replace a 1991 fire truck with ladder used by the Wahpeton Fire Department.

“The estimated useful life is 25 years,” according to paperwork viewed by the committee.

An ordinance which would allow skipping taking bids for the fire truck replacement is expected to be viewed by council. The ordinance is under consideration, McCann explained, because it would permit quicker action. Should council approve and following a full examination of the truck, the purchase would be completed in March.

There were four firefighters in the building, and two were taken to the hospital for smoke inhalation. One was treated for an electrical burn. They were treated and released Wednesday morning.

The fire was contained to the first floor, and damage to equipment and the building is being assessed. Town officials said Engine 2 is a complete loss, but it is fully insured. The fire chief said trucks cost from $600,000 to $800,000. Officials said 30 sets of gear must be decontaminated. Medical supplies for two rescue trucks and backup supplies were lost.