Folks in Marion, and those who travel there, might feel a little safer knowing about a big improvement to public safety.
Thanks to a grant, the Marion Fire Department managed to purchase two custom-made fire engines. But the deal also requires the town to donate an older truck.
Over a year ago, Marion Fire Chief Jerry Odum began looking into purchasing a new engine. Marion bought its last trucks in 1999. Before that, the last trucks were purchased in 1982.
"They take good care of them, keep maintenance up on them very well, so they do, they last us quite awhile," said Chief Odum.
The fire department has four engines and two ladder trucks. Odum said Marion City Council budgeted for one new engine.
But with grant money, he replaced one engine with two new ones.
"They're nice looking trucks. They're a little larger, a little taller. We have more storage space on top," said Odum.
The cost of one engine can break a city budget. Odum hoped for a truck that would meet the departments needs.