TURNER — Assistant Rescue Chief Ross Gagne explained the need for an off-road rescue vehicle at Monday night’s selectmen’s meeting.

He described two recent wilderness rescues where such a vehicle could have meant a shorter rescue time. Fortunately, in these two cases the department was able to work around the problem and the victims survived, he said, but they might not be so fortunate next time.

In one case, Gagne drove his pickup truck off road, exposing it to damage, in order to recover the victim. In the other case a nearby resident loaned the department his John Deere Gator off-road vehicle. Gagne said this worked well, because two paramedics were able to ride in the back with the victim and administer life-saving treatment during the ride out.

He said the vehicle could also be used by the Fire Department for fighting woods fires. He said Leeds has a Kawasaki Mule off-road vehicle it uses for both fire and rescue. On fire missions, it’s equipped with a small water tank and pump and is used to transport firefighters to remote sites.

“I will try all my avenues to get one donated before I ask you for money,” Gagne told selectmen.

There is enough money in the equipment reserve account, however the selectmen would have to approve using it. They told Gagne they were in favor of the acquisition.

Selectmen agreed with the Road Committee’s recommendation to use the town road crew to do paving projects this year. They were pleased with the paving that the town crew has done so far laying cold mix. The paver operator will get additional training before undertaking hot mix projects.

Selectmen gave the Public Works Department approval to investigate purchase of an enclosed trailer to store and transport tools and supplies typically needed at remote jobs. Currently, these items are stored in the garage and loaded into a pickup truck for transport. Having the stocked trailer available will save time and reduce loss of tools.

Selectmen discussed how much money they could prudently take from undesignated surplus funds to reduce the tax rate. They decided they could take $300,000 from the $1.8 million surplus account and still have adequate operating capital. They will set the tax rate at their next meeting.

Town Manager Eva Leavitt explained various waste disposal options available to the town. She said the economics of the different options would significantly change if the town bailed some of the waste.

Selectman Ralph Caldwell offered to loan the town a hydraulic compactor. He said that if it worked out he would sell it to the town at a reasonable price; if not they could return it.

Selectmen will consider the offer at their next meeting.