The Hudson Board of Selectmen at its most recent meeting was presented with a proposal to allocate funding from the Hudson Logistics Center Public Safety Funds.
It was explained by Hudson Fire Chief Scott Tice that their current boat is not capable operating in the river at times.
“Our current boat is not capable of operating in the river during times the river current is heavy because the motor is underpowered, and the boat will not accept a motor powerful enough to use during these times,” Tice explained.
He explained that the current motor “on this boat has been experiencing mechanical problems in past years and is becoming unreliable.”
“This boat is still useful in times the current is slow or in still waters such as a pond. The smaller size of this boat makes it possible to launch in remote areas close to where it is needed and when no boat ramp is available,” Tice explained in a memo to the Board of Selectmen.
He said that his recommendation is to purchase a new motor for the boat.
“I recommend we purchase a new motor for this boat. We have the opportunity to trade the existing motor in and receive a $600 trade-in allowance towards a new motor,” Tice explained. “The final expenditure after the trade-in for this motor would be $3,000.”
It was explained by Tice that they could also look to improve their abilities to operate in the river during high flows.
“To improve our ability to operate in the river during high flows, I recommend we purchase a boat to replace the Boston Whaler that has been placed out of service. This boat would be similar in size and power which would allow the department to operate in the river during high flows and to tow disabled boats before they experience an emergency situation. The larger boat would require a boat ramp,” Tice explained in his memo. “ It is anticipated that Hudson will have a boat ramp within the next five years, which is a short time considering the lifespan of this boat. Until we have our own boat ramp, we would use the boat ramps in Tyngsborough or Nashua. This request would include a trailer to tow the boat along with a total not to exceed $70,000.”
It was also noted by Tice that they are looking to have training done.
“We are currently working to arrange water rescue and boat operator training. This will be an initiative we aim to complete over the next year,” Tice explained.
The Board of Selectmen unanimously approved the proposal during the meeting with the funds to come from the Hudson Logistics Center Public Safety Funds.
