(KMZA)-- The Seneca Fire Department will be getting a new truck for fighting grass and brush fires.

Seneca Fire Chief Tom Haug presented bids to the City Council last week for a 4 by 4 regular cab chasis and a custom slide-in bed.

The fire department recommended purchasing the chassis and slide-in bed separately, since the method will result in the shortest lead time to receive a new unit.

The Council voted to accept a bid from Honeyman Ford for a F-550 truck for $55,500, even though it was nearly $2,300 higher than a bid submitted by a Manhattan dealer. Haug and the Council discussed the merit in purchasing the chassis from a local dealer, specifically with service and warranty work.

The Council also voted to accept a bid from Emergency Fire Equipment for the bed for $129,87. It was among two bids received.

The total cost of the truck, which will include a 500-gallon water tank, is $185,377.

In other business, the Council approved staff for the 2023 season at the city's Aquatic Park.

On the recommendation of city Recreation Director Jordan Weaver, the Council approved Brooke Stallbaumer as pool manager, starting immediately, at $17 an hour. Allison Schmelzle will serve assistant manager/lifeguard.

The Council also approved a list of 27 lifeguards and 13 concession stand employees for 2023.