KMXT 100.1 FM Public Radio in Kodiak, Alaska
The Kodiak City Council will decide on a number of much needed vehicle purchases for various city departments tonight. On the regular meeting agenda is a series of purchase authorizations, two of which are for the fire department.
Two weeks ago Fire Chief Rome Kamai explained the need for a new ambulance. He said the average life of an ambulance is 10 years, and the one that would be replaced is pushing 16. A new ambulance is expected to cost around $201,000, but thanks to two grants, Kamai said the city will only pick up $105,000 of that cost.
Another purchase authorization the council will consider is for a new fire truck, which would replace a pumper truck that was decommissioned in 2012. Kamai said the station currently only has one fire pumper, which is 12-years-old, and one ladder truck, which is 13-years-old, to respond to fire calls. A new truck will cost the city about $450,000.
The Kodiak Police Department is looking to acquire a new vehicle, as well. The council will decide on whether or not to authorize a purchase of a new police interceptor vehicle utility. Police Chief T. C. Kamai said the hope is to replace the current 2006 Ford Expedition with a newer model.
“Which is the all wheel drive version of the new Sedans that we just recently transitioned to. One of the things that is very appealing to us is that a number of the major components between the Sedan and the utility vehicle are interchangeable. So it gives us some economy there in terms of stocking parts that need to be replaced between the two vehicles as well as tires and wheels .”
Kamai said the new vehicle is also more fuel efficient. It is expected to cost $25,830.
Tonight’s Meeting starts at 7:30 p.m. in the borough assembly chambers and will be broadcast live on KMXT.
