Laurel Hill City Council questions antique fire truck's fate

The 1947 International Fire truck nicknamed "Old Red" sits In one of the fire bays of Laurel Hill Volunteer Fire Department. City council members discussed the future of the truck at a recent meeting. The council is interested having the vehicle restored by a local car club, but no formal decisions have been made.

LAUREL HILL—City Council members are seeking ways to dispose of the city’s first fire engine. The truck, referred to as "Old Red" around the area, sits on one of the city volunteer fire department’s docking bays. 

Council members were concerned that Old Red — which the city has used for community parades and festivals — may be taking too much space in the fire bay. The department has two engines used on calls.

Larry Hendren saidthe city officials were in talks with Crestview officials about loaning the truck to Crestview. However, Crestview officials decided not to pursue the option after reviewing their budget.

Mayor Joan Smith said that Old Red is currently uninsured and has several problems with oil leaks and brakes.

Hendren mentioned using a local car club to repair the truck to get it "up and running."

"It's a very nice vehicle and it's in very nice condition," he said.

The council will weigh its options and pursue the matter later.

This article originally appeared on Crestview News Bulletin: Laurel Hill City Council questions antique fire truck's fate