The City of Powell River managed to turn a profit on selling a brand new fire truck.
The Pierce Maxi Saber pumper truck was ordered in 2022 and delivered in November before the city’s insurer said it was not needed to maintain fire service levels.
A closed bid auction was held in January, with bids starting at $1 million.
The city used a procurement platform, Bonfire, with an invitation for offers on BC Bid. Bidders were allowed to make a best and final offer after the received bids were opened.
The auction closed on Feb. 14 and a report to city council shows the willing bid was $1.15 million.
Based on the original purchase price of $837,810, the city has turned a $312,190 profit.
The money will be put in a reserve account for buying vehicles and equipment. The deposit to the reserve will increase this year to $951,581.
In order to not find itself in the situation again, a report from city staff will be coming in the future to identify “best practices for fire service vehicles and equipment policies.”
