The meeting was called to order at 2:00 pm. In attendance were Supervisors Brandt, Peterson, and the Clerk. Firefighters Duvall, Feltmann, Stoltman, and Ron Schultz were present. Former firefighters Dick Wilske and Dave Badger also attended.

Jessie Corey from Custom Fire, Inc presented their sealed bid package. No other bid package was submitted.

Supervisor Brandt explained that the purpose of this meeting was only to open and record the sealed bids provided and that the proposals will be reviewed in detail before taking action at a future meeting. As such, detailed discussion of the purchase should occur after the proposals have been reviewed by the board members. Residents are welcome to voice their positions here, at the upcoming board meeting on August 11th, and at any future meeting, but the board would not be taking action at this time.

Brandt opened the bid package from Custom Fire and read aloud a summary of the proposal. Total price as shown is $571,000 for the 4-door Rescue Pumper apparatus include 850 gallon tank and 1250 gallon per minute pump. Pricing is valid for 40 days. Terms include $211,000 due when chassis is delivered to Custom Fire and balance due on delivery to the township. Delivery would be 180-200 days from contract date. Package included proof of insurance as required.

Dave Badger asked when the decision will be made. Brandt replied the board needs time to review the information so would not be at the August meeting, but possibly at the September meeting or at a special meeting. Badger asked for an opportunity to comment and to be notified when the topic is to be discussed. Dick Wilske asked if the board expected the price to be that high and questioned whether the township needed another pumper given the availability of several pumpers through local mutual aid.

Schultz responded that the price was in the ballpark of what they expected and that equipment has gotten much more expensive in the last few years. He said the truck committee had analyzed the department’s needs extensively and they felt the combination rescue pumper was a good fit to replace two old units and serve the department into the future. The department had been informed during the planning process and there was general agreement among the membership.

Brandt asked those present to bring their comments before the board at the regular meeting on Monday and be available for discussions at future meetings when all board members are present. Peterson suggested that the board seek consult from experienced persons outside the department to help the board evaluate needs and to provide suggestions on equipment purchases.

There being no further business to conduct, the meeting adjourned at 2:25 am.

John Plein
Ideal Township Clerk
August 10th, 2014