"We increased the size of the tank for interstate coverage so we have more water out there and we have a little bit of area we cover that is known as 'no-mans land' that we don't necessarily have hydrants there," explained Fire Chief Joe Holomy.
At a cost of $428,000, the new pump truck was paid for in cash with $400,000 that the department saved over the last five years. The remainder came from foreign fire tax monies, which come from a 2 percent tax on out-of-state companies selling fire insurance policies in Illinois. The funds are collected and then distributed throughout the state to local fire departments each year.
"There aren't a lot of frills on it," said Holomy. "It's a basic engine."