In an unprecedented move that's called "the future of government," The Bay City Commission Monday evening approved an agreement to share a new aerial fire truck with neighboring Hampton Township, easing the cost of the estimated $1 million vehicle for taxpayers in both municipalities.
At separate meetings Monday, Oct. 3, the Bay City Commission and Hampton Township Board of Trustees unanimously approved agreements that will see Bay City pick up 75 percent of the final cost of a new aerial truck and Hampton Township pay the remaining 25 percent. Under the agreement, the 75-25 split — which was determined based on each municipality's population — would remain in effect for future maintenance costs.
Bay City will put out bids for the truck through its purchasing department in the coming weeks, per the agreement.
"This is something we're extremely proud of," said Bay City Manager Rick Finn. "We're going to save $300,000 and Hampton is going to save $700,000, which is a big deal. But the even bigger thing to be happy about is that our government is reaching out and showing everyone that this city wants to work in partnerships with anyone interested in working with us. This is a perfect example of that."
Both municipalities are in need of a new aerial truck. Bay City's existing truck was purchased in 1995. Hampton Township's is even older, purchased in 1982.
In a county where aerial trucks aren't often used, the shared agreement makes sense, said Kerri Prieur, Bay City's fire chief.