Hall County Commissioners recently voted to purchase a new fire boat to add to Hall County Fire Rescue's Lake Lanier fleet.
Commissioners voted Thursday night to spend just under $700,000 on the new boat, which is set to be built and delivered by December of 2024. The 38-foot landing craft is being built by Wisconsin-based Lake Assault Boats, LLC.
Hall County Fire Rescue Chief Chris Armstrong said in a release Friday that he is excited about the addition.
"This state-of-the-art aluminum framed vessel promises an elevated standard of safety and service for Lake Lanier's residents and visitors,” Armstrong said. “With its enclosed cabin, versatile deck, fire-fighting capabilities and durability, it exemplifies a new era of efficient and lasting emergency response for HCFR."
The boat will feature an enclosed, acclimated cabin and includes a pump that can pull water from the lake to use for fire suppression. It also has a large deck, which county officials say will provide room for rescue operations.
Hall County District 2 Commissioner Billy Powell said improving the county's fire rescue fleet on Lake Lanier is important as the county continues to grow.
“Each year, more and more folks visit and reside on Lake Lanier. This vessel has been a much needed addition to our public safety services, and it is a much needed addition to our citizens who deserve top-tier protection in times of crisis," Powell said.
The boat is being paid for with funds from the county's capital projects budget.
