The Leitchfield City Council approved financing for a new fire truck for the Leitchfield Fire Department at Monday night’s meeting.
Chip Ferguson with Baird Financial Services presented his findings related to the financing of the $1.44 million purchase.
Ferguson, who surveyed three local banks regarding loan terms, said Wilson & Muir Bank offered the best (fixed) interest rate of 4.47 percent. The 10-year loan will be repaid at approximately $185,000 per year. The security for the loan would be the fire truck (a quint/ladder truck) that’s being financed.
The city may also prepay the loan without penalty.
Council members unanimously agreed to accept the resolution.
The city council initially approved the purchase of a new fire truck in August 2023. The new truck, which should be delivered in the next 90 days, is being built by Pierce Manufacturing.
The need for a new quint/ladder truck arose when the current fire truck, which is over 30-years-old, began having trouble passing its annual inspection.
“The one we currently have is 35-years-old,” Leitchfield Fire Chief Tim Duvall previously told the council. “It struggles to (pass) its annual pump and ladder test. They (inspectors) actually gave us a couple of breaks the last time they were here” for an inspection.
The truck’s age and high usage rate has caused multiple mechanical issues, primarily related to the vehicle’s hydraulics.
“Currently the quint is having issues with the hydraulics (adversely affecting steering and operation of the ladder). It also has a steering assist device (shock) that’s busted,” Duvall said.
Duvall noted at the time that a new quint/ladder truck will replace not only the old quint/ladder vehicle but also Engine 63 (pump truck), “which is 35-years-old and would be put in reserve for ISO (insurance) ratings … and for training only.”
Beautification Awards
Multiple Beautification Awards were handed out to residents who have markedly improved the appearance of building exteriors in the city:
- Robert and Mandi McKinzie, Ashton Watkins and Kendra Chino – The Alexander Hotel, Alice Theater, Steak & Stone, The Rabbit Hole
- Danielle Yerardi – Lily’s Loft and Spa on Main
- Earlene Whitaker – Wilson Law Office
(Photo: Leitchfield FD quint/ladder truck)
By Ken Howlett, News Director
Contact Ken at ken@k105.com
