Ask Mr. Answer Person: Your fire engine questions answered

E-mails, we get e-mails about the proposed $900,000 purchase of an aerial ladder fire engine from the Indianola Fire Department.

Bill asks, "What is the fixation with a truck from Indianola?"

Mr. Answer Person says: "I wouldn't call it a 'fixation'--more like a prudent way to spend money.  The equivalent new fire truck would cost an estimated $1.5 million.  That's a savings of $600,000 in buying the used fire truck in Indianola.

Bill also says, "The Fire Department purchased a 'lemon' ladder truck last time, which has suddenly depreciated to near zero value--ouch!"

Mr. Answer Person says: "I once owned a car that I had to spend a lot of money on until I sold it.  Are you suggesting this was my fault?  Decorah Fire Department officials are upfront about the money they have spent on repairs on the existing aerial ladder truck--and say it's the reason they should buy the used fire engine from Indianola. 

Jeff asks, "Who is getting a sales commission on this deal?"

Mr. Answer Person says: "Rosenbauer American, a major seller of fire engines, has been answering questions about Indianola's fire truck--even though they would not receive a commission on the sale.