Roanoke Times
Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: THURSDAY, May 27, 1993 TAG: 9305270492
SECTION: NEIGHBORS PAGE: E16 EDITION: METRO
SOURCE: Nancy Bell
DATELINE: LENGTH: Short
Fire Chief Barry Fuqua thought Vinton would have a ladder truck by the end of May. The money had been set aside in the town's 1993-94 budget, bids were received, and a new truck was found.
All that remained was getting the approval of the Roanoke County Board of Supervisors, which was to pay half the purchase price.
But the supervisors did not approve the purchase as expected. Members wanted to look at another option, so the bids have been extended to June 18.
"Before the county commits to its share, they want to explore this option to utilize public money in the best way," said Vinton Town Manager Clay Goodman.
The county is taking another look at a retrofit kit that may correct a problem that disabled Vinton's only ladder truck more than two years ago.
Vinton and Roanoke County are involved in litigation with several manufacturers of the defective ladder. Similar ladders have collapsed.
Initially, Vinton Town Council held out for a settlement from the manufacturers before making a decision to purchase a new truck, but as time went by, council decided to replace the truck.
The case goes to trial Sept. 16, but Goodman said a decision about the new truck will probably be made before then.
by CNB