Hills

The Hills Fire Department and its upcoming needs were a major topic of discussion during the Hills City Council meeting on June 24.

Fire Chief Matt Pantel told the council the department is planning to replace its fire tanker, a purchase expected to cost about $500,000. Pantel said the city and the fire association have approximately $265,000 set aside for the project and estimated it would take about two years to secure the remaining funding.

Pantel added that a new tanker would respond to all rural fire calls. The department's current tanker was built in 1996, while its oldest fire truck is a 1991 pumper.

LOSAP

The council also reviewed the Length of Service Award Program (LOSAP), which was approved in February to help support the city's volunteer firefighters. City Administrator Adriane Sedlacek provided an overview of the program and its benefits.

New fire station

Mayor Tim Kemp also discussed plans for a new fire station, saying the project is expected to appear on the November ballot for voters to consider. Following the city's purchase of the former elementary school property, they are planning a bond referendum that would fund the construction of a new combined city office and fire station. 

Next meeting

The next Hills City Council meeting is scheduled for Monday, July 13, at the Hills Fire Station.