By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT
Hays Post

The Ellis County Commission approved the purchase of 38 self-contained breathing apparatus units for Ellis County Rural Fire No. 1 at Monday evening’s regular meeting.

Earlier this year, Rural Fire Director Dick Klaus presented the commission with three bids to replace current packs, which tests show are beginning to wear out.

“Out of the 38 air packs, we had 23 fail at least one (test). Some failed several,” Klaus said. “I don’t think the chiefs or myself want to be held liable with guys wearing equipment like this.”

The commission awarded the bid to Hays Fire and Rescue Sales and Service for 38 AVON ISI air packs for $187,950.

Klaus said the AVON unit was the preferred choice of his firefighters, who attended demonstrations of three units earlier this year.

He estimated the air packs will last 15 years, noting the units carry a 10-year warranty on electronics and 15-year warranties on pneumatics and air components.

In other business

• The commission approved changes made to both the county’s meal and mileage reimbursement policy and the business meals and refreshment policy

• Commissioners adopted a resolution endorsing the Northwest Kansas Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy

• The commission approved the following appointments to the Ellis County Council on Aging: Karen Ashbaugh, Ellis; Dr. Arris Johnson, Hays; Alberta Klaus, Hays; Ilona Patterson, Victoria; Milton Leiker, Hays; and William Moriarity, Hays.

Moriarity was named as chairman of the group.