Upper Burrell fire department to display new truck to show the naysayers

As Upper Burrell Township supervisors pursue a controversial 2-mill fire tax to buy a new fire truck, the township’s volunteer fire company will display the proposed truck for the public to see on Monday.

The truck will be on display for the public at the Upper Burrell Volunteer Fire Company hall, 4370 Seventh Street Road, starting at 6 p.m.

The fire company wants to buy a new Quint fire truck to replace a nearly 24-year-old Quint. The new Quint performs the three main duties of a fire engine pumper in addition to having an aerial ladder and ground ladders.

“We’re getting the truck out there so the naysayers can come up and see it,” said fire Chief Bryan Fitch.

Earlier this month, former firefighters questioned not so much the need for a new fire truck, but the size and capabilities of the proposed new fire truck. Specifically, critics were concerned that the proposed truck was too large. Fitch said at 37 feet and 7 inches long, it’s smaller than a typical school bus.

During a township supervisors meeting earlier this month, residents were not enthused about paying a two-mill fire tax — down from the originally proposed three mills.

The supervisors are holding off their decision until they have more details.

The township plans to audit the fire company’s books to “see that the money they receive has been used in the manner in which they are required to use it,” said Ross Walker, supervisors chairman.

The public and supervisors want more accountability on fire company finances, especially if the township enacts a new fire tax, he said.

Fitch said he welcomes the audit.

Supervisors are in the process of forming a committee to review the fire company’s financial situation and its choice of the new fire truck.