new $750,000 Meredith fire truck - Page 2

fatlazyless · 11-22-2009, 07:54 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Argie's Wife

I hear that taxes are higher in VT....

So, a high tax Vermont fire dept purchases a 20-year old, $20,000 ladder truck from Laconia, and low tax Laconia purchases a new 2009 $850,000, 100' aerial tower. And, from where does low tax Laconia get all that $850,000?

One could easily assume it would be the other way around, with Vermont buying new, what with their high Vermont taxes. So, how can NH be a low tax state if it can afford to buy new for $850,000?

Beyond my huffing & puffing here....I still say...the 18000 population of Laconia would be better served if the town kept the old truck and used the $850,000 for dental cleaning & check-ups and oral health paid out to local dentists and oral hygienists. More Laconians would benefit from that than from a new truck.

And, do the Laconia firefighters already get dental insurance as part of their pay package?

Janet · 11-22-2009, 08:12 AM

Time to end this thread!?

twoplustwo · 11-22-2009, 08:19 AM

One could easily assume it would be the other way around, with Vermont buying new, what with their high Vermont taxes. So, how can NH be a low tax state if it can afford to buy new for $850,000?

I think Scubajay has done a phenomenal job of explaining why equipment like this is needed, how safety requirements change, and how little of an impact an expense like this has on your overall taxes. Rather than accept his information, you sit and pick at the subject like a scab on your knee with lame, baseless arguments. You're relentless. It's exhausting to read and demeaning to all local FDs trying to save lives.

Until you have the statistics of both towns so you can compare income and expense information, you're comparing apples and oranges. If you have such an intense need to find out why equipment like this is necessary, why don't you use some of your free time and go volunteer for the Meredith FD? You can also consider a run for selectman, so you have more input into Meredith spending.

Janet · 11-22-2009, 08:45 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by twoplustwo

One could easily assume it would be the other way around, with Vermont buying new, what with their high Vermont taxes. So, how can NH be a low tax state if it can afford to buy new for $850,000?

I think Scubajay has done a phenomenal job of explaining why equipment like this is needed, how safety requirements change, and how little of an impact an expense like this has on your overall taxes. Rather than accept his information, you sit and pick at the subject like a scab on your knee with lame, baseless arguments. You're relentless. It's exhausting to read and demeaning to all local FDs trying to save lives.

Until you have the statistics of both towns so you can compare income and expense information, you're comparing apples and oranges. If you have such an intense need to find out why equipment like this is necessary, why don't you use some of your free time and go volunteer for the Meredith FD? You can also consider a run for selectman, so you have more input into Meredith spending.

Well said twoplustwo

Yosemite Sam · 11-22-2009, 09:01 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by twoplustwo

If you have such an intense need to find out why equipment like this is necessary, why don't you use some of your free time and go volunteer for the Meredith FD? You can also consider a run for selectman, so you have more input into Meredith spending.

I'll second that motion!

fatlazyless · 11-22-2009, 10:05 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by fatlazyless

And, do the Laconia firefighters already get dental insurance as part of their pay package?

...ok...so I'll answer my question......yes, the Laconia firefighters do indeed get dental coverage as it is a full-time fire dept as opposed to an on-call dept in Meredith.

And, while the 5 Meredith selectmen's position is considered to be a part time volunteer position, it does include a health and dental insurance policy.

If you are a Laconia or Meredith property tax payer, then you know very well if you have health & dental for yourself, while at the same time your property taxes are paying the health & dental for the town employees such as police, fire, town, school, & selectmen.

....and where is the thankyou coming from them?

Yosemite Sam · 11-22-2009, 10:45 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by fatlazyless

And, while the 5 Meredith selectmen's position is considered to be a part time volunteer position, it does include a health and dental insurance policy.

They do?

scubajay1153 · 11-22-2009, 11:32 AM

Another BOLD LIE by FLL!

I won't bite to hard......because I DO NOT HAVE DENTAL and can't pay for the damage it will do to my mouth. The FF's and Police in the City DO NOT HAVE DENTAL because the City REFUSES to entertain the thought of offering it to us. We continue to ask, they continue deny. Period.

twoplustwo · 11-22-2009, 12:08 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by SIKSUKR

This reminds me of the kid that won't quit poking you in the same spot.

Uf da. Make it stop.

Heaven · 11-22-2009, 12:13 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by fatlazyless

...ok...so I'll answer my question......yes, the Laconia firefighters do indeed get dental coverage as it is a full-time fire dept as opposed to an on-call dept in Meredith.

And, while the 5 Meredith selectmen's position is considered to be a part time volunteer position, it does include a health and dental insurance policy.

If you are a Laconia or Meredith property tax payer, then you know very well if you have health & dental for yourself, while at the same time your property taxes are paying the health & dental for the town employees such as police, fire, town, school, & selectmen.

....and where is the thankyou coming from them?

Thank you for paying me to do my job. I endeavor to do the best possible job for you, the citizens of my town, for as long as I am in your employ.

fatlazyless · 11-22-2009, 08:40 PM

Hi ScubaJay....you obviously know about the specifics of your job so I owe you an apology for suggesting Laconia gives you dental insurance coverage.

As far as the Meredith Selectmen, I base that on what I read in the Laconia Daily Sun from aproximately Sept 2008. As I recall, the five selectmen, according to the LaDaSun were discussing ways to keep costs down, and someone, probably Chairman Peter Brothers was reported to have looked around at all four other selectmen and say something like "I believe this will be the best that we can do unless you will agree to all give up your health insurance benefits. Looking around the room, no one raised their hand, and the discussion moved on." (a paraphrase from memory)

I'm looking around in the LaDaSun search engine, and will get back with the exact quote. But, that piece of info struck a chord (boing!) in my brain and stayed with me.

Again, ScubaJay....sorry for the false info on my part....nothing personal....your work is appreciated....especially when it's a real fire like at my own house, and not just a false alarm somewhere else! fll

tis · 11-23-2009, 07:35 AM

The selectmen in Wolfeboro get health insurance too.

Kamper · 11-23-2009, 07:51 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by fatlazyless

...ok...so I'll answer my question...... ...

....and where is the thankyou coming from them?

Are you for or against proper insurance for municipal employees? My boss thanks ME for my efforts when I get my check. Only a rat of an employer would fail to arrange some type of health insurance for employees who work a significant number of hours.

Are you for or against that fire truck? The new fire station?

I'm losing track of your positions due to jumping around on the various topics you've introduced in this thread, plus the opinions and counter-opinions you've expressed not only on other members' but on your own previous posts here. Would you be so kind as to say "I am for/against this." so all readers know what you are trying to say?

Thank you in advance for your consideration!

SIKSUKR · 11-23-2009, 09:18 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by SIKSUKR

This reminds me of the kid that won't quit poking you in the same spot.

This reminds me of the kid that won't quit poking you in the same spot.
This reminds me of the kid that won't quit poking you in the same spot.
This reminds me of the kid that won't quit poking you in the same spot.
This reminds me of the kid that won't quit poking you in the same spot.
This reminds me of the kid that won't quit poking you in the same spot.
This reminds me of the kid that won't quit poking you in the same spot.
Boy that spot is sore.

fatlazyless · 11-23-2009, 09:19 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Kamper

Are you for or against that fire truck?

Here's one for people to consider. While high tax Vermont makes do with a second hand, 20 year old, $20,000 ladder truck purchased from Laconia, low tax Laconia purchases a new $850,000 ladder truck.

So, what does this tell you?

So, who is really low tax, and who is really high tax: Vermont or New Hampshire?

Kamper · 11-23-2009, 09:52 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by fatlazyless

... (Evasion, evasion, evasion) ...

Yeah. That's what I thought you'd say.

Have a nice day!

jmen24 · 11-23-2009, 10:08 AM

FLL, I will tell you what I know from my wife, who although was born in Maine, spend her school life in Vermont and transfered to a NH school in high school. That even though Vermont does have higher taxes, they put a considerable margin of those tax dollars into their school systems. Their schools are far superior to what is offered at most schools in NH that are twice the size of the ones in VT.

When she transfered into her final school in NH she had enough credits to graduate a year early without having to double up on courses.

FLL, does this town in VT have a name so that we can compare the population base against Laconia, not that it matters, but it might enlighten you on how they choose to spend their dollars.

4 for Boating · 11-23-2009, 11:16 AM

Just to toss my two cents in and to make my position clear on the truck, if the fire or police departments need something then I’m all for it if done in a proper purchasing/bid manner. Having said that and given the fact that Meredith may have needed these things in order to assure the people that help protect and respond to the community are in the best position to help, can someone tell me why given the need for these expensive purchases (New Police Station/Re-Furbished Fire Station/New Fire Truck >> Totaling over $4.5M In town floated bonds) would we need to have an additional $3.5M community center?

Don’t get me wrong, it is certainly nice to have but with all the other necessary expenses and a rising tax rate, why would a fiscally responsible team approve/proceed with this?

Argie's Wife · 11-23-2009, 11:28 AM

Attached to this post is the 2008 tax burden by state.

VT is 8th and NH is 46th on the list for tax burden.

VT is 22nd and NH is 10th on the list for income per capita.

FLL - you're welcome to explore the cost per pupil, social programs, and other expenditures that VT has vs. what NH spends on. They raise more money and spend more money, is the short of it. Perhaps the $20K engine was purchased because it wasn't well planned for, but that's just an assumption...

NoRegrets · 11-23-2009, 11:49 AM

The tax burden for each state can be found in the attached chart. Vermont ranked 7th highest, Mass was # 8 and New Hampshire is # 47. I like the fact that NH has a small government and support keeping limits on it. The converse is poor Massachusets. The are # 8 and trying to be #1. I believe that is why now support so many refugees from the south.
Even if some of the facts seem suspect I do enjoy FLL's postings as they challenge us to read and research.
750 K does seem like a lot of money for a truck. I am not qualified to judge the ROI but I do hope that it is never used for it's intended purpose.

http://www.statemaster.com/graph/eco...den-per-capita

ITD · 11-23-2009, 02:54 PM

Oh Less is just stirring it up again.

Anyone who knows of a truck driving job for Less, please PM it to him, he needs something else to do with his time.

gtagrip · 11-23-2009, 03:05 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ITD

Oh Less is just stirring it up again.

Anyone who knows of a truck driving job for Less, please PM it to him, he needs something else to do with his time.

Just remember, push ups are probably not a job requirement.

Yosemite Sam · 11-23-2009, 03:47 PM

Does this make you happy now FLL?

twoplustwo · 11-24-2009, 05:49 AM

Yosemite Sam, that required a beverage disclaimer! I just spit coffee all over my keyboard

fatlazyless · 11-24-2009, 08:20 AM

Let's not be ridiculous....that old fire truck looks like it is a 1930's truck.

If you simply enter 'craigslist fire truck' into google, you come up with a truck full of different possibilities.

Down on the Island of Dominica, home to the Dominican Republic and to Haiti, believe they use white Dodge dualie pickup trucks equipped with ladder rack, ladder, hose, pump, water tank and firefighters.

Necessity is the mother of invention. When all they have to spend is $15,000. they figure out what works and go with a used pickup truck and used firefighting equipment. Besides, it is the firefighters and not the truck that fights the fire.

So, did Meredith purchase a new $750,000 aerial tower truck only to have it be damaged in the first week due to operator error? The most expensive fire truck in the world is useless without firefighters who know what they are doing, and are motivated to do it.

twoplustwo · 11-24-2009, 10:14 AM

So, did Meredith purchase a new $750,000 aerial tower truck only to have it be damaged in the first week due to operator error? The most expensive fire truck in the world is useless without firefighters who know what they are doing, and are motivated to do it.

It's one thing to question budgets, it's another thing entirely to question the Meredith FD's motivation to do the job right. They save lives on a daily basis. Your contribution to society is what? You've gone from annoying to downright rude with that one sentence.

Accidents happen.

brk-lnt · 11-24-2009, 10:24 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by twoplustwo

So, did Meredith purchase a new $750,000 aerial tower truck only to have it be damaged in the first week due to operator error? The most expensive fire truck in the world is useless without firefighters who know what they are doing, and are motivated to do it.

It's one thing to question budgets, it's another thing entirely to question the Meredith FD's motivation to do the job right. They save lives on a daily basis. Your contribution to society is what? You've gone from annoying to downright rude with that one sentence.

Accidents happen.

Don't feed the trolls...

Yosemite Sam · 11-24-2009, 03:56 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by fatlazyless

Let's not be ridiculous....that old fire truck looks like it is a 1930's truck.

But FLL, you said: "Besides, it is the firefighters and not the truck that fights the fire."

So, as you can see, that 1930's truck won't be figting any fires anytime soon. Therefore it should do the job.

Seeker · 11-24-2009, 05:27 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Janet

Time to end this thread!?

I'll second that one!

Kamper · 11-24-2009, 06:19 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by fatlazyless

... Down on the Island of Dominica, home to the Dominican Republic and to Haiti, .. .

The Dominican Republic and Haiti share the island of Hispaniola.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hispaniola

The Commonwealth of Dominica is on the island of Dominique, sometimes referred to as Dominica.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dominica

Can you advise us what their equipment has to do with what Meredith's purchases, or our dental health here in NH?

RI Swamp Yankee · 11-24-2009, 09:39 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by brk-lnt

Don't feed the trolls...

They may need dental work if they get too much sugar...

brk-lnt · 11-24-2009, 09:52 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by RI Swamp Yankee

They may need dental work if they get too much sugar...

Maybe as a training exercise the Meredith FD can take that new truck and give someone a hosing down...

Yosemite Sam · 11-27-2009, 11:38 AM

OK FLL, you have got to give the governmental officials in Laconia credit for figuring out how to use their brand new Fire Truck.
Below is what the Laconia Daily Sun said about their ingenuity:

"In recent years, it has been impossible to string the lights much more than two-thirds of the way up the tree. That problem was solved by the Laconia Fire Department’s new ladder truck. With its 100-foot vertical and 93-foot horizontal reaches, it was possible to string the festive white lights from the very top of the 85-foot ever-green. Quite incidentally, the exact height of the tree was determined using the GPS device in the bucket of Ladder 1."

BroadHopper · 11-27-2009, 01:24 PM

This is a pretty expensive 'cherry picker' to be hanging lights! I had to pay PSNH to hang the Christmas lights on the neighborhood tree!

Kamper · 11-27-2009, 04:29 PM

Awsome! Value added.

NoBozo · 11-27-2009, 07:32 PM

On the job training. Every time they use the truck they will become more proficient. AND...in this case..they get something done which is constructive. Better to learn when not under pressure.

NB

Seeker · 11-27-2009, 07:56 PM

Don't tell FLL they plugged the extension cord into his house.

Yosemite Sam · 11-27-2009, 08:27 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by NoBozo

On the job training. Every time they use the truck they will become more proficient. AND...in this case..they get something done which is constructive. Better to learn when not under pressure.

NB

Exactly, then when a bulb goes out at the top of the tree the new $750,000 fire truck will be ready go to the rescue. Not every town in NH can say they are able to change Christmas tree bulbs 100 ft high from the ground.
You really gotta love Yankee ingenuity.

fatlazyless · 11-30-2009, 10:11 PM

Meredith ladder truck dented but no serious damage done

MEREDITH - The Fire Department's new ladder truck was damaged when it was backed into one of the bollards (posts) astride the doors of the apparatus bay of the new stationhouse on November 11.

Selectman Chuck Palm, the former fire chief, said Friday that the extent of the damage was limited to dents in the rear bumper and rear quarter panel. "The damage had no affect on the operation of the truck," he said. The truck he stressed was fully insured and arrangements for its repair have been made.

The town purchased the new truck, which was commissioned on November 5, for $760,000.

Laconia Daily Sun, Nov 30
.......
Surprize Pop Quiz

1. With their new 100' aerial tower truck, how many Laconia firefighters does it take to remove and replace a Christmas tree lightbulb?

2. With their new 100' aerial tower truck, how many Meredith firefighters does it take to remove and replace a Christmas tree lightbulb?

3. If the Lakes Region Mutual Fire Aid tones out a call to replace a burnt-out Christmas tree lightbulb in New Hampton, then which neighboring fire department, Meredith or Laconia, is most likely to get to the lightbulb first, and why?

4. When the fire department arrives at the scene of the burnt out Christmas tree lightbulb, how will they detemine which specific lightbulb is burnt out?

5. The State of New Hampshire has how many different towns and cities?

6. The combined total of all the cities and towns in New Hampshire have a total of how many different 100' aerial tower trucks?

7. While the State of NH purchases fire trucks on a town by town, have money, basis: Which nearby new england state purchases fire trucks on a regional basis and why?

8. When it is your house that is burning, do you hope a fire truck will show up quickly and put the fire out?

9. Or, do you hope that the fire will continue to burn so your house will be considered a total loss by your insurance company?

10. Would you encourage your local Laconia or Meredith Fire Dept to adopt a dalmation firehouse dog?

11. (special bonus question) How about a beer guzzl'n basset hound, that likes Pabst Blue Ribbon, for a firehouse buddy........aaaarrrrrrrroooooo........!

Happy Gourmand · 12-01-2009, 08:04 AM

You are like a dog who bites you in the ass and won't let go....
I have to say that I usually get a chuckle out of many of your comments, but I also have to say that I find that many of your references regarding the new ladder truck to be misinformed, condescending and downright disrespectful. I think it's time for you to throw the towel in on this issue. The ladder truck is in place and there is nothing constructive that you can do about it. Your rants are becoming obnoxious.

twoplustwo · 12-01-2009, 01:48 PM

Thank you, Phantom. I couldn't agree more.

Janet · 12-01-2009, 05:39 PM

I totally agree!

fatlazyless · 12-01-2009, 07:40 PM

....okey-dokey....methinks I get the message......think I will go slink off to that NH Animal Rescue League for Meredith on the Centre Meredith Rd, close to Laconia, and go shop for an adopted beer guzzl'n basset hound for a new buddy. You know, we'll be able to cry in our beer together.....misery luvs company......

Isn't caring for a dog what seems to work at rehabilitat'n long term inmates in some of the prisons?

& aarrrrooooo's to you, too!......................

Pineedles · 12-01-2009, 07:46 PM

You are an amazing soul!

RI Swamp Yankee · 12-02-2009, 08:36 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by brk-lnt

Don't feed the trolls...

.... if only ........

trfour · 12-02-2009, 09:32 PM

to be nice, or otherwise!... 'Tis the time of year to celebrate and be thankful for all that we enjoy as a great family here with! Seems to me that it would and include the les fortunate.

Count Your Many Blessings Folks, Life as we know it passes too swiftly, even here at www.winnipesaukee.com . Lets keep it on the Britte side, and join in, be a positive part of, join a local community function, Club or other moving forward entity!

Embrace and enjoy while we can!

trfour · 12-04-2009, 08:19 PM

Firefighters armed with safety item they hope they never have to use.

http://citizen.com/apps/pbcs.dll/art...9631/0/CITIZEN

Yosemite Sam · 12-15-2009, 11:45 AM

Time to pay for the new fire truck.

"Tuesday, December 15, 2009
MEREDITH — The town's tax rate has been set at $12.54 per $1,000 of assessed valuation, Town Manager Phil Warren reported Monday. The new rate represents an increase of $1.08 — or 9.4 percent — over 2008.

While the town rate has increased from $3.97 in 2008 to $4.23 in 2009, "the goal of the Board of Selectmen to raise no more funds from local taxation from current levels has been met — the increase in the rate is a function of declining real estate values, not an increase in local taxation," said Warren.

Tax bills are due to be mailed Wednesday, and payment is due by Jan. 18. "

WeirsBeachBoater · 12-15-2009, 07:19 PM

That truck has been paid for already. There were funds set aside by town meeting years ago. The tax rate today is not caused by having to pay for this new piece of equipment.

Yosemite Sam · 12-16-2009, 09:45 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by WeirsBeachBoater

That truck has been paid for already. There were funds set aside by town meeting years ago. The tax rate today is not caused by having to pay for this new piece of equipment.

You're right, Meredith did a good job saving and justifying the new fire truck.

11-22-2009, 08:19 AM	#103
twoplustwo Senior Member Join Date: Dec 2007 Location: Moultonborough Posts: 456 Thanks: 51 Thanked 39 Times in 21 Posts	I'm not sure why I'm doing this... One could easily assume it would be the other way around, with Vermont buying new, what with their high Vermont taxes. So, how can NH be a low tax state if it can afford to buy new for $850,000? I think Scubajay has done a phenomenal job of explaining why equipment like this is needed, how safety requirements change, and how little of an impact an expense like this has on your overall taxes. Rather than accept his information, you sit and pick at the subject like a scab on your knee with lame, baseless arguments. You're relentless. It's exhausting to read and demeaning to all local FDs trying to save lives. Until you have the statistics of both towns so you can compare income and expense information, you're comparing apples and oranges. If you have such an intense need to find out why equipment like this is necessary, why don't you use some of your free time and go volunteer for the Meredith FD? You can also consider a run for selectman, so you have more input into Meredith spending.

11-22-2009, 11:32 AM	#108
scubajay1153 Senior Member Join Date: Dec 2006 Location: Gilford Posts: 93 Thanks: 2 Thanked 8 Times in 7 Posts	I do? Another BOLD LIE by FLL! I won't bite to hard......because I DO NOT HAVE DENTAL and can't pay for the damage it will do to my mouth. The FF's and Police in the City DO NOT HAVE DENTAL because the City REFUSES to entertain the thought of offering it to us. We continue to ask, they continue deny. Period.

11-22-2009, 08:40 PM	#111
fatlazyless Senior Member Join Date: Apr 2004 Posts: 8,752 Blog Entries: 1 Thanks: 300 Thanked 1,010 Times in 736 Posts	Hi ScubaJay....you obviously know about the specifics of your job so I owe you an apology for suggesting Laconia gives you dental insurance coverage. As far as the Meredith Selectmen, I base that on what I read in the Laconia Daily Sun from aproximately Sept 2008. As I recall, the five selectmen, according to the LaDaSun were discussing ways to keep costs down, and someone, probably Chairman Peter Brothers was reported to have looked around at all four other selectmen and say something like "I believe this will be the best that we can do unless you will agree to all give up your health insurance benefits. Looking around the room, no one raised their hand, and the discussion moved on." (a paraphrase from memory) I'm looking around in the LaDaSun search engine, and will get back with the exact quote. But, that piece of info struck a chord (boing!) in my brain and stayed with me. Again, ScubaJay....sorry for the false info on my part....nothing personal....your work is appreciated....especially when it's a real fire like at my own house, and not just a false alarm somewhere else! fll __________________ ... down and out, liv'n that Walmart side of the lake! Last edited by fatlazyless; 11-22-2009 at 09:39 PM.

11-23-2009, 11:16 AM	#118
4 for Boating Senior Member Join Date: Jan 2006 Posts: 224 Thanks: 1 Thanked 38 Times in 26 Posts	The Big Picture Just to toss my two cents in and to make my position clear on the truck, if the fire or police departments need something then I’m all for it if done in a proper purchasing/bid manner. Having said that and given the fact that Meredith may have needed these things in order to assure the people that help protect and respond to the community are in the best position to help, can someone tell me why given the need for these expensive purchases (New Police Station/Re-Furbished Fire Station/New Fire Truck >> Totaling over $4.5M In town floated bonds) would we need to have an additional $3.5M community center? Don’t get me wrong, it is certainly nice to have but with all the other necessary expenses and a rising tax rate, why would a fiscally responsible team approve/proceed with this?

11-23-2009, 03:47 PM	#123
Yosemite Sam Senior Member Join Date: Sep 2009 Location: Lakes Region Posts: 395 Thanks: 81 Thanked 95 Times in 56 Posts	Does this make you happy now FLL? Attached Images

11-22-2009, 08:12 AM	#102
Janet Senior Member Join Date: Apr 2004 Location: Texas Posts: 470 Thanks: 233 Thanked 134 Times in 91 Posts	Time to end this thread!?

11-23-2009, 07:35 AM	#112
tis Senior Member Join Date: Jan 2006 Posts: 6,726 Thanks: 752 Thanked 1,457 Times in 1,014 Posts	The selectmen in Wolfeboro get health insurance too.

11-23-2009, 10:08 AM	#117
jmen24 Senior Member Join Date: Feb 2009 Posts: 1,139 Thanks: 223 Thanked 319 Times in 181 Posts	FLL, I will tell you what I know from my wife, who although was born in Maine, spend her school life in Vermont and transfered to a NH school in high school. That even though Vermont does have higher taxes, they put a considerable margin of those tax dollars into their school systems. Their schools are far superior to what is offered at most schools in NH that are twice the size of the ones in VT. When she transfered into her final school in NH she had enough credits to graduate a year early without having to double up on courses. FLL, does this town in VT have a name so that we can compare the population base against Laconia, not that it matters, but it might enlighten you on how they choose to spend their dollars.

11-23-2009, 11:49 AM	#120
NoRegrets Senior Member Join Date: Jun 2007 Location: Hudson - NH Posts: 408 Thanks: 233 Thanked 212 Times in 88 Posts	The tax burden for each state can be found in the attached chart. Vermont ranked 7th highest, Mass was # 8 and New Hampshire is # 47. I like the fact that NH has a small government and support keeping limits on it. The converse is poor Massachusets. The are # 8 and trying to be #1. I believe that is why now support so many refugees from the south. Even if some of the facts seem suspect I do enjoy FLL's postings as they challenge us to read and research. 750 K does seem like a lot of money for a truck. I am not qualified to judge the ROI but I do hope that it is never used for it's intended purpose. http://www.statemaster.com/graph/eco...den-per-capita

11-23-2009, 02:54 PM	#121
ITD Senior Member Join Date: Apr 2004 Location: Moultonboro, NH Posts: 2,928 Thanks: 476 Thanked 691 Times in 387 Posts	Oh Less is just stirring it up again. Anyone who knows of a truck driving job for Less, please PM it to him, he needs something else to do with his time.

11-24-2009, 05:49 AM	#124
twoplustwo Senior Member Join Date: Dec 2007 Location: Moultonborough Posts: 456 Thanks: 51 Thanked 39 Times in 21 Posts	omg Yosemite Sam, that required a beverage disclaimer! I just spit coffee all over my keyboard

11-24-2009, 08:20 AM	#125
fatlazyless Senior Member Join Date: Apr 2004 Posts: 8,752 Blog Entries: 1 Thanks: 300 Thanked 1,010 Times in 736 Posts	Let's not be ridiculous....that old fire truck looks like it is a 1930's truck. If you simply enter 'craigslist fire truck' into google, you come up with a truck full of different possibilities. Down on the Island of Dominica, home to the Dominican Republic and to Haiti, believe they use white Dodge dualie pickup trucks equipped with ladder rack, ladder, hose, pump, water tank and firefighters. Necessity is the mother of invention. When all they have to spend is $15,000. they figure out what works and go with a used pickup truck and used firefighting equipment. Besides, it is the firefighters and not the truck that fights the fire. So, did Meredith purchase a new $750,000 aerial tower truck only to have it be damaged in the first week due to operator error? The most expensive fire truck in the world is useless without firefighters who know what they are doing, and are motivated to do it. __________________ ... down and out, liv'n that Walmart side of the lake!

11-24-2009, 10:14 AM	#126
twoplustwo Senior Member Join Date: Dec 2007 Location: Moultonborough Posts: 456 Thanks: 51 Thanked 39 Times in 21 Posts	out of line So, did Meredith purchase a new $750,000 aerial tower truck only to have it be damaged in the first week due to operator error? The most expensive fire truck in the world is useless without firefighters who know what they are doing, and are motivated to do it. It's one thing to question budgets, it's another thing entirely to question the Meredith FD's motivation to do the job right. They save lives on a daily basis. Your contribution to society is what? You've gone from annoying to downright rude with that one sentence. Accidents happen.

11-27-2009, 11:38 AM	#133
Yosemite Sam Senior Member Join Date: Sep 2009 Location: Lakes Region Posts: 395 Thanks: 81 Thanked 95 Times in 56 Posts	OK FLL, you have got to give the governmental officials in Laconia credit for figuring out how to use their brand new Fire Truck. Below is what the Laconia Daily Sun said about their ingenuity: "In recent years, it has been impossible to string the lights much more than two-thirds of the way up the tree. That problem was solved by the Laconia Fire Department’s new ladder truck. With its 100-foot vertical and 93-foot horizontal reaches, it was possible to string the festive white lights from the very top of the 85-foot ever-green. Quite incidentally, the exact height of the tree was determined using the GPS device in the bucket of Ladder 1." Attached Images

11-27-2009, 01:24 PM	#134
BroadHopper Senior Member Join Date: Oct 2004 Location: Laconia NH Posts: 5,576 Thanks: 3,214 Thanked 1,103 Times in 794 Posts	If you ask me. This is a pretty expensive 'cherry picker' to be hanging lights! I had to pay PSNH to hang the Christmas lights on the neighborhood tree! __________________ Someday may never be an actual day.

11-27-2009, 04:29 PM	#135
Kamper Senior Member Join Date: Jul 2005 Location: Thornton's Ferry Posts: 1,306 Thanks: 67 Thanked 171 Times in 127 Posts	Awsome! Value added.

11-27-2009, 07:32 PM	#136
NoBozo Senior Member Join Date: Jun 2008 Location: Portsmouth. RI Posts: 2,231 Thanks: 400 Thanked 460 Times in 308 Posts	On the job training. Every time they use the truck they will become more proficient. AND...in this case..they get something done which is constructive. Better to learn when not under pressure. NB

11-27-2009, 07:56 PM	#137
Seeker Senior Member Join Date: Nov 2007 Location: Effingham Posts: 408 Thanks: 37 Thanked 19 Times in 15 Posts	Don't tell FLL they plugged the extension cord into his house.

11-30-2009, 10:11 PM	#139
fatlazyless Senior Member Join Date: Apr 2004 Posts: 8,752 Blog Entries: 1 Thanks: 300 Thanked 1,010 Times in 736 Posts	...dented but not serious... Meredith ladder truck dented but no serious damage done MEREDITH - The Fire Department's new ladder truck was damaged when it was backed into one of the bollards (posts) astride the doors of the apparatus bay of the new stationhouse on November 11. Selectman Chuck Palm, the former fire chief, said Friday that the extent of the damage was limited to dents in the rear bumper and rear quarter panel. "The damage had no affect on the operation of the truck," he said. The truck he stressed was fully insured and arrangements for its repair have been made. The town purchased the new truck, which was commissioned on November 5, for $760,000. Laconia Daily Sun, Nov 30 ....... Surprize Pop Quiz 1. With their new 100' aerial tower truck, how many Laconia firefighters does it take to remove and replace a Christmas tree lightbulb? 2. With their new 100' aerial tower truck, how many Meredith firefighters does it take to remove and replace a Christmas tree lightbulb? 3. If the Lakes Region Mutual Fire Aid tones out a call to replace a burnt-out Christmas tree lightbulb in New Hampton, then which neighboring fire department, Meredith or Laconia, is most likely to get to the lightbulb first, and why? 4. When the fire department arrives at the scene of the burnt out Christmas tree lightbulb, how will they detemine which specific lightbulb is burnt out? 5. The State of New Hampshire has how many different towns and cities? 6. The combined total of all the cities and towns in New Hampshire have a total of how many different 100' aerial tower trucks? 7. While the State of NH purchases fire trucks on a town by town, have money, basis: Which nearby new england state purchases fire trucks on a regional basis and why? 8. When it is your house that is burning, do you hope a fire truck will show up quickly and put the fire out? 9. Or, do you hope that the fire will continue to burn so your house will be considered a total loss by your insurance company? 10. Would you encourage your local Laconia or Meredith Fire Dept to adopt a dalmation firehouse dog? 11. (special bonus question) How about a beer guzzl'n basset hound, that likes Pabst Blue Ribbon, for a firehouse buddy........aaaarrrrrrrroooooo........! __________________ ... down and out, liv'n that Walmart side of the lake! Last edited by fatlazyless; 12-01-2009 at 08:14 AM.

12-01-2009, 08:04 AM	#140
Happy Gourmand Senior Member Join Date: Jul 2008 Location: Ruskin FL Posts: 1,027 Thanks: 188 Thanked 322 Times in 179 Posts	Fll You are like a dog who bites you in the ass and won't let go.... I have to say that I usually get a chuckle out of many of your comments, but I also have to say that I find that many of your references regarding the new ladder truck to be misinformed, condescending and downright disrespectful. I think it's time for you to throw the towel in on this issue. The ladder truck is in place and there is nothing constructive that you can do about it. Your rants are becoming obnoxious.

12-01-2009, 01:48 PM	#141
twoplustwo Senior Member Join Date: Dec 2007 Location: Moultonborough Posts: 456 Thanks: 51 Thanked 39 Times in 21 Posts	the thanks button is MIA Thank you, Phantom. I couldn't agree more.

12-01-2009, 05:39 PM	#142
Janet Senior Member Join Date: Apr 2004 Location: Texas Posts: 470 Thanks: 233 Thanked 134 Times in 91 Posts	I totally agree!

12-01-2009, 07:40 PM	#143
fatlazyless Senior Member Join Date: Apr 2004 Posts: 8,752 Blog Entries: 1 Thanks: 300 Thanked 1,010 Times in 736 Posts	....okey-dokey....methinks I get the message......think I will go slink off to that NH Animal Rescue League for Meredith on the Centre Meredith Rd, close to Laconia, and go shop for an adopted beer guzzl'n basset hound for a new buddy. You know, we'll be able to cry in our beer together.....misery luvs company...... Isn't caring for a dog what seems to work at rehabilitat'n long term inmates in some of the prisons? & aarrrrooooo's to you, too!...................... __________________ ... down and out, liv'n that Walmart side of the lake! Last edited by fatlazyless; 12-01-2009 at 10:47 PM.

12-01-2009, 07:46 PM	#144
Pineedles Senior Member Join Date: Aug 2004 Location: Moultonborough & CT Posts: 2,545 Thanks: 1,072 Thanked 668 Times in 367 Posts	You are an amazing soul!

12-02-2009, 09:32 PM	#146
trfour Senior Member Join Date: Nov 2002 Location: The Lakes, Central NH. and Dallas/Fort Worth TX. Posts: 3,694 Blog Entries: 3 Thanks: 3,069 Thanked 472 Times in 236 Posts	Embarking On A New Season... to be nice, or otherwise!... 'Tis the time of year to celebrate and be thankful for all that we enjoy as a great family here with! Seems to me that it would and include the les fortunate. Count Your Many Blessings Folks, Life as we know it passes too swiftly, even here at www.winnipesaukee.com . Lets keep it on the Britte side, and join in, be a positive part of, join a local community function, Club or other moving forward entity! Embrace and enjoy while we can! __________________ *trfour* Always Remember, The Best Safety Device In The Boat, or on a PWC Snowmobile etc., Is YOU! Safe sledding tips and much more; http://www.snowmobile.org/snowmobiling-safety.html

12-04-2009, 08:19 PM	#147
trfour Senior Member Join Date: Nov 2002 Location: The Lakes, Central NH. and Dallas/Fort Worth TX. Posts: 3,694 Blog Entries: 3 Thanks: 3,069 Thanked 472 Times in 236 Posts	Firefighters armed with safety item they hope they never have to use. http://citizen.com/apps/pbcs.dll/art...9631/0/CITIZEN __________________ *trfour* Always Remember, The Best Safety Device In The Boat, or on a PWC Snowmobile etc., Is YOU! Safe sledding tips and much more; http://www.snowmobile.org/snowmobiling-safety.html

12-15-2009, 11:45 AM	#148
Yosemite Sam Senior Member Join Date: Sep 2009 Location: Lakes Region Posts: 395 Thanks: 81 Thanked 95 Times in 56 Posts	Time to pay for the new fire truck. "Tuesday, December 15, 2009 MEREDITH — The town's tax rate has been set at $12.54 per $1,000 of assessed valuation, Town Manager Phil Warren reported Monday. The new rate represents an increase of $1.08 — or 9.4 percent — over 2008. While the town rate has increased from $3.97 in 2008 to $4.23 in 2009, "the goal of the Board of Selectmen to raise no more funds from local taxation from current levels has been met — the increase in the rate is a function of declining real estate values, not an increase in local taxation," said Warren. Tax bills are due to be mailed Wednesday, and payment is due by Jan. 18. "

12-15-2009, 07:19 PM	#149
WeirsBeachBoater Senior Member Join Date: Apr 2004 Posts: 709 Blog Entries: 9 Thanks: 39 Thanked 148 Times in 65 Posts	Yosemite Sam is shooting his guns first asking later That truck has been paid for already. There were funds set aside by town meeting years ago. The tax rate today is not caused by having to pay for this new piece of equipment.