The town’s rescue fire boat has been out of service for the last several months, purportedly leaving many lives in jeopardy because of the fire department’s inability to respond to a crisis on the water, according to Fire Chief Scott Kettelle.
“The risk is apparent,” the chief said after reciting a number of potential problems that could develop into more serious issues if the town doesn’t rescue from drydock its own boat — which needs a $100,000 engine replacement.
The boat, which went into service in 2014, originally cost almost $700,000 and was funded through a U.S. Department of Homeland Security grant. One of two engines has seized, but both need to be replaced for the boat and firefighting operations to work properly, the chief explained.
The town council on Tuesday voted 3-2 to fund the repairs, but not before strong opposition from council members Kerry McKay and Richard Welch. Both were concerned about North Kingstown taxpayers footing the bill rather than seeking out money from other sources, such as federal and state government funds.