It all started when Lisbon and West Branch got to talking at a Johnson County Mutual Aid Association meeting. Lisbon was looking for a pumper and West Branch had one available.

When it comes to saving lives, fire fighters need reliable equipment. That's why the West Branch Fire Department said it's time to upgrade their pumper.

"It's easier for them to come look at what they're buying and they kind of know what they're getting that way. They know the equipment has been kept in good shape," said Kevin Stoolman, the fire chief in West Branch.

Deputy Fire Chief Ryan Dunn said the new Engine 2, a 2017 Spartan/Smeal, cost $450,000 and will replace the previous Engine 2, which is 15 years old and was involved in an accident that put it out of regular operation. Vehicles are typically in frontline service for about 10 years before being placed in reserve service for another 10 years, Dunn said.

Station 55 will will be a 5,600-square-foot building that will include three bays for fire engines and 2,500 square feet of dorms, kitchen, restrooms and office areas. The total cost is slated to be a firm $3.6 million or under that and will be paid for by Shea Homes and Fire Facilities Impact Fees.

Fire station No. 1, built in 1905, was said to have several structural issues by architects years ago, and other area firefighters were called to serve the downtown area. 

This week city officials accepted a bid to repair the floor of the building, which will allow fire trucks to be housed inside once again.