DALTON, Mass. — Fire Chief Christian Tobin may have found the department a ladder truck while vacationing in the state of Florida. 

 

Tobin is still very early in discussions with the North Collier Fire Rescue District in Naples, Florida, regarding a potential donation of a 1998 Pierce Quantum 107-foot aerial ladder truck. 

 

The Board of Water Commission voted during its meeting on Tuesday to allow Tobin to discuss the possibility with the North Collier Fire Rescue District and to return to the board with a written offer. 

 

"The biggest trouble is we didn't budget for this. So, if it doesn't come free, we don't have the money. We don't have $90,000 in any of our budget, nor do we have it in free cash, nor do we have it in overlays. So, we can't buy it," board Chair James Driscoll said. 

 

Tobin agreed but emphasized that he was not asking the district to purchase the ladder truck for $90,000. 

 

Rather, during the initial conversation he had with the North Collier Fire Rescue District, he said the district is willing to donate the truck if the Dalton Fire District covers the cost of shipping and handling, which is estimated to be about $5,000. 

 

"The truck is certified pumper [and] ladder. They've even offered to put some tools and equipment on it. They're in a much better position than we are," Tobin said.