The Franklin Township Fire Department is eagerly anticipating its newest addition. A shiny, black and red fire truck will soon join the department, complete with gold piping and a new logo commemorating the department’s 60th anniversary. 

The new engine was purchased in December from Pierce Manufacturing in Appleton, Wis., for $400,000, said fire Chief Richard Howard.  

An additional $3,675 was spent on upgrades, including the new paint scheme.

The truck is expected to be delivered by June 14, he added.  

The new color scheme was chosen so that Franklin Township might stand out against the sea of red fire trucks and provide the township with some identity, said Howard.  

The new engine will essentially replace one the department has had since 1986 and will be the first engine purchased in ten years, he explained.  

Discussion was held during the trustees’ March 18 meeting about the best approach to selling the “out of service” engine, which needs a new water tank, estimated to cost $7,500 to repair.   

Although Howard said he has received interest in the engine, township trustees expressed a desire to list the truck on a government auction Web site so that it can see what the interest is and hopefully fetch top dollar for it.