City Saves More Than $1.8M in purchase of Replacement Fire Truck

The City of Owen Sound has saved more than $1.8M through the purchase of a Sutphen Aerial Fire Truck through GovDeals, an online auction of public sector assets. This 75’ Aerial will replace the existing 21-year-old truck that was due for replacement. Over the past few years, fire trucks have seen unprecedented price increases. The estimated replacement cost of a new 75’ aerial would have been more than $2.3M. The refurbished fire truck is anticipated to meet the Fire Department’s needs for the next 15 years, with an option to extend the service life beyond that. 

The truck will be delivered to Sutphen Fire in Dublin, Ohio to have a complete inspection and refurbishment completed prior to it being delivered. The Fire Department is expected to receive the truck before the end of 2024.  

The Fire Department’s existing reserve Aerial Truck (Aerial 4) was built in 2004 and is at the end of its life and must be replaced. This truck is not eligible for life extension as the company that built it is out of business, and parts are no longer available to maintain or repair the truck. 

The recently purchased used apparatus is very similar in capabilities to the truck it replaces. However, it has a slightly larger water pumping capacity, ladder, and equipment storage capacity. 

For more information, please contact Phil Eagleson, Fire Chief at 519-376-2512 ext. 2244 or email peagleson@owensound.ca 

Quotes: 

"The purchase of a refurbished firetruck to replace an aged one is an investment in our community’s safety for the next couple of decades. We thank Chief Eagleson for this creative approach to maximizing value for our taxpayers.” 

-Mayor Ian Boddy 

Quick Facts: 

• The City recently purchased a refurbished Aerial Fire Truck to meet the Fire Department’s needs. 
• Owen Sound Fire's Fleet currently consists of two Pumper Trucks, two Ladder Trucks, and a Rescue Boat. 

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