Oneida fire engine tabled, again

The third time didn’t serve as a charm for the proposed purchase of a new fire engine for the city of Oneida.

During the regular session of the common council meeting Nov. 17, the $442,000 purchase was once again tabled.

Councilman Daniel Jones began the discussion stating that he had asked Chief Don Hudson to look into a used fire truck.

“Unfortunately, that’s just what you get,” he said.

Jones added that replacing the frame had been discussed. However, he said that putting a $150,00 new frame on a 25-year-old truck was “a total waste of money.”

“A new fire truck is the way to go,” he concluded.
However, the bid that is being considered wasn’t the lowest, which raised legality questions for city attorney Michel Debottis.

“It is supposed to be the lowest, responsible bidder. This resolution is $58,000 more than the lowest bidder,” Debottis said. “My recommendation is to be go with what the law requires, which is the lowest, responsible bidder.”

According to Hudson, the third highest bid was accepted because the truck was deemed to most meet the specs.

Deputy Chief James Dowd added that the truck is at “bare bones” and that eventually, equipment will need to be purchased at a later date.

Also, Councilwoman Marcia Rafte reminded the council and public that if the truck were to be purchased after the end of the year, it would face new, costly Department of Environmental Conservation requirements.

In the end, the bid was tabled and a special meeting will be held Nov. 23 at noon.

CATEGORY: Government
TAGS: oneida fire engine, chief don hudson, common council meeting, bid, michel debottis, department of environmental conservation
EDITION: Madison Eagle

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