Fire District 13’s new tender truck will arrive next month the old-fashioned way — driven coast to coast by Chief Wood Weiss.
Weiss and his spouse Chris plan to visit family in Bradenton, Florida, in September before climbing into the district’s new 2025 Pierce Kenworth tender and steering it home to La Conner. The cross-country trek is expected to take about a week. Weiss assured commissioners it will be more duty than vacation.
The chief explained the reason for the 3,000-gallon rig’s long journey: the district saves $10,000 by picking it up directly rather than having it delivered. Commissioners underscored the fiscal prudence, voting unanimously Thursday to pay off the $368,000 truck instead of financing it. With revenues running 10% higher than expected and expenses about 6% below projections, the district’s $1.38 million general fund made the purchase feasible.
Commissioner Bruce Shellhamer said avoiding interest payments benefits taxpayers. The new tender replaces a 35-year-old truck and is expected to serve the district for decades. Weiss plans to roll into the Snee-Oosh Road station before the Sept. 18 meeting.
“We’re really excited about this. I think it’s going to be a great addition to our fleet,” Weiss said.
Commissioners likewise expressed excitement about the district’s CARES (Community Assistance Referral & Education Services) program, which has eased pressure on the 911 system. Six households that made between seven and 20 emergency calls in 2024 have used 911 either once or not at all this year after CARES connected them with health and social service resources.
“This program is unique and is part of what makes our district so unique,” Weiss said.
CARES is among district programs and initiatives receiving funding support from the Swinomish Indian Tribal Community, whose reservation and rural areas north and east of La Conner comprise the fire district’s coverage area.
During the Aug.14 meeting, Weiss secured a $150 monthly stipend for Emergency Communications Manager Andrew Lester, noting the growing demands of the role. “I’m making this stipend request because I’m going to be asking even more from him,” Weiss said.
He also praised the district’s crew, which has handled 750 calls so far this year.
Bill Reynolds is a general assignment reporter who covers Town government, schools, and spot news.
