– By Tiffani Ireland –

The Trenton Town Council unanimously elected Councilman Keith Sexton to serve as Mayor Pro-tem at their regularly scheduled monthly meeting, Wed., Aug. 14.  As Mayor Pro-tem, Mr. Sexton will preside over Council meetings in the event Mayor Billy Padgett is absent.

In other business, Council voted unanimously to proceed with the purchase of a new fire truck from Fireline, Inc. of Windsor, GA.  Fireline was the lowest bidder for the contract at $184,989.  However, due to required additions to the truck in order to make it ISO legal, the final cost for the new truck will be $234,190.  It was noted that this cost is still nearly $10,000 less than the next lowest bid.  With these needed add-ons, the truck will be fully service ready when it is finally delivered to the Trenton Fire Dept.

In a related matter, Council also was of one accord in giving approval to seek financing for $100,000 of the fire truck’s purchase price through BB&T.  Of three financial institutions to offer bids, BB&T was lowest with a 2.55% interest rate.  The remainder of the truck’s purchase price will be due at the time of the vehicle’s delivery and will be paid by the town.

Before adjourning, Council did discuss the mosquito issue; specifically possible acquisition of a mosquito sprayer truck.  Council was advised that such a purchase would cost the town approximately $20,000 for equipment and certification the first year alone.  Council decided to table this option when it was mentioned that a private contractor may possbily be able to supply spraying needs in the future .