Ward 2 Alderman Rudy Via also serves as the Fire Chief for the Gerald-Rosebud Fire Protection District (GRFPD). He presented information to his fellow board members on a cost share proposal for the purchase of climbing/rescue equipment by the district.

Via shared a list of equipment totalling $7,331.66 he noted that the equipment could also be used by the city to more safely conduct inspections and repairs to its two water towers. He noted his department would also provide specialized training for city employees in the use of the equipment. He asked if the city would be interested in paying $2,500 towards the purchase.

City Administrator Nick Grube (who also serves as a member of the board of directors for the GRFPD) noted the city could pay up to $3,000 every three years for a water tower inspection.

Ward 2 Alderman Cary Parker suggested the city pitch in $4,500 toward the equipment. “This purchase will help not just the city or the district, but it will help our community and our neighbors,” Parker noted. 

Fire department personnel will use the equipment to aid in rescues not just from heights, but also from falls down steep grade or into a hole. They can also use the equipment when responding to mutual aid calls.