30-year old fire truck to be replaced at Keowee Key

A new, $1.2 million fire truck for the fire department based at Keowee Key may now be ordered, as the county fathers today approved the award for purchase to a broker in Easley.  Preceding council’s approval was a general obligation bond issue to cover the purchase. Chief Brandon Shirley of the Keowee Fire Department, following this morning’s special council meeting, said the truck will be assembled at Ocala, Florida, and the promised finish date is between 16 and 18 months.  The truck will replace a 30-year old piece of equipment, and Shirley touts safety and modern-day features are the top advantages.  The Keowee Fire Department covers a wide swath of area adjoining Lake Keowee that includes numerous lakefront subdivisions.  It also responds to boat fires and the occasional fire on lake islands.