Fire Dept. requests approved

Purchases for the fire department were approved by the Fairbury City Council Wednesday evening.

During the first regular June meeting, the group approved the purchase of thermal imaging equipment and a lighting upgrade for truck 241.

The department is looking to replace a thermal imaging camera which was lost. Fire Chief Josh Hoselton reported the technology on the equipment has improved while prices have gone down.

“Thermal imaging has come a long way,” he said.

Alderman Steve Endres made the motion to approve the equipment.

The lighting upgrade for truck 241 stemmed from some strobes not working and the older lights causing a large amp drain on alternators as they put six alternators on that particular truck.

“Converting it to LED would be better,” Hoselton explained.

Hoselton feels if they want to keep 30-year-old trucks on the road, they need upgrades.

“Are these primarily used for when you’re going to a call or when you’re there?” asked Alderman Jim Tipton, referring to the truck lights.

“Both,” replied Hoselton.

A benefit of the LED lights is not having to run a generator.

Also at Wednesday’s council meeting, Hoselton noted they had a truck go out of service and are looking at $3800 to repair it.

Alderman Endres reported vandalism occurred at Marsh and North parks. Both parks were spray painted and the pavilion was broken into.

“We might have to do something,” he said.

Alderman Jon Kinate asked if dumpsters could be locked so others can’t get in them. City Superintendent Brett Ashburn said personal ones can be locked.

“You have to make sure they’re unlocked before the truck comes,” added Mayor David Slagel.

Generally, residents are responsible for what is in residential dumpsters. Streets Superintendent Lonnie Rhoads has observed the dumpster at North Park getting abused.

In another matter, Alderman Tipton asked for an update on the pickleball court at North Park. Mayor Slagel said a group wanted to fix up the area and have it repainted. Volunteers did the work at Prairielands Foundation helped with financing.

“Sounds good, I just wasn’t all that familiar with it,” said Tipton. “They get used a lot.”

Slagel noted they hope to get pickleball going inside during the winter months at the Boys and Girls Club.

Tipton spoke of the recent open house and ribbon cutting for the new Boys and Girls Club structure, saying he was very impressed with the building.

“The gym is really outstanding.”

Ashburn said kids started attending the new facility this week and seemed excited about it.

The consent agenda was approved, including May 21 meeting minutes, voucher invoice register and overtime report.

An executive session was held which included the approval of a revised pay ordinance.