It has been a long time in coming for the Papalote Volunteer Fire Department as they received a new, large brush truck with a grant from the Texas A&M Forest Service Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program.

The new brush truck has a 700-gallon water tank and foam capability that will help increase the department’s capability for fighting brush fires.  The new converted military tractor brush truck can better meet the growing demand of brush fires and help ensure the safety of the people and property.

Hubbard Creek VFD used the grant to purchase a new truck chassis that will be converted into a small brush truck, according to the release.

The fire department intends to add a slip-on unit to the truck with foam capability for quick response to fires in the rural and Hubbard Creek areas, according to the release. 

An update was also provided on the E1 ladder truck that the new one will replace.

Scott explained that he found companies to list the sale with, with one that provided the service on consignment. He provided them with the information on the truck and it was listed for $75,000.

"That's what they thought we could get out of it," he said.

Since the listing went up, Scott has been contacted by a few agencies.

"I have two departments who are interested," he said.

One agency in Montreal will not have an answer until May 17. Scott explained that the second department is offering a cash payment upfront of $61,5000 - not the listed asking price.

"So right now, we're in a holding pattern," he said.

Scott noted that the listing company will receive 10 percent when it is sold.