The city of Edmonds is about to give away a prized possession — one given back in 2004 that cannot ever be replaced — the historic 1938 former Edmonds fire engine.
In 2004, the Edmonds Fire Safety Foundation raised $12,000 to purchase the fire engine and donate it to Edmonds — back home where it belonged! A plaque on the side of the engine denotes several individuals, businesses and service clubs who donated $500 each to help purchase it.
Since then, its popularity at several events in Edmonds has grown steadily, particularly among our young children who have really “taken to it.” This fully restored fire engine has been displayed at the Fourth of July Parade, the Garden Market, the Summer Market, transporting Santa to the Christmas tree-lighting ceremony, the Antique Car Show, Edmonds Night Out, etc.
So why does the city plan to let it go? Mayor Gary Haakenson and the City Council have indicated that they don’t necessarily want to see it disappear. They understand its value to our citizens.
But there are at least three reasons they feel compelled to give the engine back to the foundation:
1. Since our fire department was purchased by the Fire District No. 1, our city can no longer store the engine in Station No. 17.
2. Because our firepersons are now part of Fire District No. 1, they are not allowed to drive the fire engine to and from the various events.
3. The cost of maintaining and insuring the engine means another strain on our city’s budget.
First and foremost: a new place must be found to house the fire engine. If a location in Edmonds is found, then the City Council and the Fire Safety Foundation can decide who should retain jurisdiction over it to solve the remaining two problems. Perhaps the Edmonds Historical Society could help, or even take over ownership.
If you have any ideas or suggestions, please contact the City Council or the Fire Safety Foundation at www.EdmondsFireSafetyFoundation.org.
Keep in mind the old saying: “Where there’s a will — there’s a way.”
Don Olsen
Edmonds
Talk to us
> Give us your news tips.
> Send us a letter to the editor.
> More Herald contact information.
