03/05/2026
Acquisition and Restoration of the New Tanker Truck
Formation of the Truck Committee and Selection Process
This year, the Strawberry Point Firefighters Association convened a specialized truck committee to evaluate suitable options for replacing one of their existing tankers. Through comprehensive research and numerous consultations, the committee identified a viable prospect with Carco Company in Rice, Minnesota. A recently delivered vehicle from Hanover, Colorado—within the association’s budget—was available for consideration. The truck in question, a 2005 Kenworth 3000-gallon tanker with 32,000 miles, exhibited primarily tank-related damage. Three members drove to the facility and after several hours of inspecting the truck, touring the facility, and after discussions with ranking fire association members decided to purchase truck.
Repair and Restoration
Initial repairs were undertaken by Precision Collision in Manchester, addressing poly-tank corner damage at a cost of $584.17. The restoration extended to the tank’s top cap, necessitating a custom diamond plate solution, the installation of new red and blue lights, and comprehensive wiring repairs. The total expenditure for these enhancements amounted to $12,565. Members of the fire department contributed substantial hours—ranging from 25 to 50 per person—towards cleaning and further repairs, which incurred an additional cost of approximately $700. Replacement of the light bar was facilitated through the collaboration with Sheriff Brent Ostrander of Clayton County, who generously donated a unit from departmental storage.
Equipment Improvements and Final Preparations
Upon completion of repairs and upgrades, the association conducted a meeting to
authorize the procurement of additional equipment, including essential tools and a dump tank, with an expenditure nearing $4,000. The vehicle received professional decals and lettering for the city from Manchester Signs, at a cost of $1,359.25. Collectively, these efforts resulted in a fully restored and equipped tanker, now ready for deployment by Strawberry Point Fire & Rescue, serving both the city and neighboring communities.
Replacement of Legacy Equipment and Operational Advancements
This new apparatus supersedes the department’s oldest tanker—a 1996 GMC Topkick 2000-gallon model equipped with a manual transmission. The necessity for an upgrade became pronounced as prior repairs required custom-fabricated parts due to scarcity and obsolescence. Additionally, proficiency with manual transmission was limited among department members. The adoption of an automatic transmission in the new vehicle will enable broader operational participation.
Donation and Financial Summary
The Strawberry Point Firemen’s Association did formally execute the transfer of title tonight at the city council meeting, donating the truck to the City of Strawberry Point for utilization by Fire & Rescue. Sincere appreciation is extended to all contributors whose support has made this upgrade possible, thereby averting significant municipal expense—comparable used tankers currently command prices around $150,000, while new units approach $500,000. The comprehensive expenditure for this project totaled $57,233.42. The department further acknowledges the city’s approval of a new pumper truck, presently under construction and slated for delivery within the coming years.
Acknowledgments
Special recognitions are extended to all donors and repair facilities whose efforts were integral to the success of this project: Domeyer Auto, Alum-Line, Clayton County Sheriff Department (for the LED light bar donation), Manchester Signs (for lettering and decals), and Carco Company (the vehicle’s supplier).
