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ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION - JUNE 16, 2008 3 Fire Chief Boehlke explained these funds would be retained by the fire department and placed into the general fund. He added that the department has proposed fronting some money to purchase the new aerial ladder truck from their general fund. Councilmember McClung suggested that the $50,000 gained by the sale of the old truck be used to pay down the expense of the new aerial ladder truck. Mayor Harpstead questioned if the City should be concerned that this was a first model/first unit type engine. Fire Chief Boehlke indicated he had spoken with the department's maintenance crew to see if there were any problematic concerns. He explained the box booms are the most economical, cheapest to maintain, and are simple by design. Councilmember Holden asked how future budgeted trucks would be affected by purchasing this unit two years in advance. Fire Chief Boehlke explained the capital replacement plan wouldn't change at this time but would be reevaluated as time goes on. He indicated in 2012 an additional truck was due for replacement, but an adjustment could be made based on the wear and tear of the engines. Councilmember Holden questioned if the needs assessment survey would assist the fire department in going forward with the purchase of this engine. Mayor Harpstead indicated the department needed two aerial engines, one large and one mid- sized. The only question was whether or not the proposed demo unit fit the upcoming needs of the community. Mayor Harpstead questioned how Shoreview and North Oaks responded to the new truck request. Fire Chief Boehlke indicated Shoreview approved the request unanimously and North Oaks approved it on a 4-1 vote. Mayor Harpstead asked for a consensus from the Council. Councilmember Holmes stated she was in favor of the aerial ladder truck but questioned how the financing would be handled. Fire Chief Boehlke explained the aerial ladder would be paid off over four years and that further financial infonnation would follow once approval was gained from all three cities involved. Councilmember McClung indicated he was not in support of this plan. Mayor Harpstead suggested staff move this item forward to the June 30th Council agenda for a vote. He added that he would like the response ratios solidified and that the purchase price of the truck being replaced be passed along to the cities to pay down the new truck.