Council may ask state for funds to keep fire truck operating

WILMINGTON, Del. (AP) - The Wilmington City Council is considering asking the state for $300,000 to keep a fire truck in operation.

The council will vote on a resolution Thursday that would authorize a request for funds from the state to prevent Fire Engine 6 from closing.

Fire Chief Anthony Goode announced last week that the truck will be taken out of operation when low staffing levels require the use of overtime pay to fill shifts.

Councilman Bob Williams, who sponsored the resolution, says closing an engine poses a safety risk. He estimates the $300,000 would cover overtime costs for Engine 6 firefighters for three months, giving incoming mayor Mike Purzycki time to prepare his budget.

Williams wants to work with the state to look for leftover money from past city budgets.