Lafayette Fire Department needs truck repair

LAFAYETTE — In a few months time, Lafayette Fire Department may be short their main truck, unless a repair is made soon.

At the Aug. 5 Lafayette Township Committee meeting, Fire Chief John Elzinga expressed his concern in the truck, declaring an urgent need for repair due to rotting of the underbody.

However, finding the funds to allow the repair won’t come that easy. Since the budget for Lafayette has already been worked out for next year, the fire department may have to find their own funds.

“Had we known (about this repair) we could have put it in the budget,” said Committeeman Richard Hughes.

Although the issue had only recently been brought to Elzinga’s attention, the repair will cost $6,945.

“For just under $7,000 we can clean this truck up and get at least another 10 years out of it. If we let it go for a long period of time we are looking at a cheap mid-pumper engine for $350,000. We don’t want to do that,” said Elzinga.

Mayor John D’Angeli expressed concern in being unable to pull money out of their Capital Improvement fund but urged Elzinga to have the fire department use their own money to get the problem fixed.

“We have already budgeted for this year, but when we do our budget for next year, we will replace the money the Fire Department puts out. Since you can’t wait, I would do it now,” said D’Angeli.

Committee members across the board all agreed with the idea.

“Funds cannot be shifted or moved until November, but we would rather keep out trucks in good shape. If the department can get this done, we will be able to allow for reimbursement for next year,” said Hughes.

During the recent Lafayette Recreation Committee meeting, members accepted the resignation of Wilfred Jiroux and appointed Howard Drake. The commission is responsible for providing and conducting recreational activities in the township.