A5

By Charlene MacKenzie

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SUSSEX -

The Sussex Fire Department has a new firefighter and a new fire truck, and it's throwing open its doors for the public this Saturday with an open house.

The volunteer department gained a new member Sept. 23 with the addition of firefighter Christopher Marriott.

The department now has 39 members and is approaching its full complement of 40 members, Deputy Mayor Marc Thorne noted while receiving the news at Sussex council's Sept. 22 meeting.

Before the protective services committee report was presented, Councillor Elizabeth Stuart declared a conflict of interest and excused herself from the council chambers, as council would be discussing purchase of a truck for the fire department and she's an employee of one of the bidders.

The department required a half-tonne truck to haul fire department equipment such as a rescue boat and a six-wheeler.

Council received bids from three dealerships on six trucks, ranging in year from 2005 to 2008 and in price from $14,424.45 to $30,247.84.

Council accepted the protective services committee's recommendation of a 2005 Dodge Ram with 67,500 kms, supplied by Norrad Chrysler, for $18,298.15.

"We didn't purchase the cheapest truck," said Councillor Stephen Campbell.

"All the vehicles were inspected by the chief and deputy chief. The one they chose was what they determined to be the most suitable for the job it's intended to do."

With Oct. 6-11 declared Fire Prevention Week in Sussex, the fire department will hold an open house at the Maple Avenue fire station Oct. 11 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.