The Township of Douro-Dummer has decided to purchase two new pumper fire trucks.
In a report to council delivered by treasurer Paul Creamer, it was explained that the budget allows for replacement of one of these fire vehicles in 2024 while the other is scheduled for 2026.
The report stated that given costs for fire apparatus are increasing by 10 per cent per annum and it takes approximately two years for delivery of said vehicles there is merit for purchasing both vehicles at this time.
Creamer said that there are some creative options to help reduce the price of the two vehicles.
One of the savings measures is for the township to purchase the chassis for the vehicles. Purchasing the chassis will save the municipality $14,500 per vehicle. The cost for each chassis would be $250,000 per vehicle.
The township would have to pay for the chassis when they are delivered to the manufacturer which would be approximately one year prior to receiving the finished vehicles and the final payment.
Creamer said that it is obvious that if the municipality prepays for the chassis they will not be able to invest that money elsewhere, but considering the numbers presently on the table this prepayment will offer a 5.8 per cent return on the dollar.
Creamer said that there is lots of time to find sources for the funding, but they can take money from reserves if needed.
The report said that initial conversations with vendors stated that current pricing could save future inflation costs of about $60,000 per year.
As directed staff put the fire trucks out to tender. The RFP closed on September 27, 2024 with the municipality receiving three bids. The three companies who submitted were Camions Carl Thibault Inc., Commercial Truck Equipment Corp. and Battleshield Industries Ltd.
The report recommended that the tender be given to Camions Carl Thibault Inc. which offered the lowest pricing at $1,303,096.00 excluding HST for both vehicles, however it was explained that price was just one quarter of the evaluation. Suppliers were also evaluated on Company Profile/Service/Support, Company Performance/Experience and References and Vehicle Specifications each accounting for 25 per cent of the final evaluation.
Creamer also noted that the trucks they are looking at presently are 40 per cent more expensive that the truck the township purchased just two years ago.
Councillor Ray Johnston asked Creamer if they were to purchase the new trucks would they fit in any of the township fire halls as they sit presently.
Creamer responded that they will not fit at the moment, but they are 40 year investments and plans are on the table for a new Fire-Public Works facility.
Mayor Heather Watson questioned the prepayment of the two chassis for the amount of $500,000. Watson commented on the fire truck company that went out of business in 2014 where another municipality had made a prepayment on their truck and lost a deposit of $250,000. The mayor asked if it was worth the risk
It was explained that the difference is Douro-Dummer would own the chassis. The title would be put in the township’s name and therefore they would own the property. There might be a delay in delivery, but there would not be a total loss.
The report concluded that Carl Thibault Emergency Vehicles stands out as a premier choice for fire truck solutions due to its long-standing history, innovative advancements, and commitment to quality. This company is the most experienced in the field of emergency vehicle manufacturing among the bidders, offering a comprehensive range of product support and services along with an industry standard warranty.
Deputy mayor Harold Nelson moved the recommendation and the motion passed unanimously.
