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Breitung Twp accepts ‘huge asset’ in firefighting UTV

By JIM ANDERSON, News Editor 3 min read

QUINNESEC -- Breitung Township Fire Department has improved its response capabilities with the acquisition of a new utility terrain vehicle that allows personnel to reach remote areas and off-road sites.

Township officials got a closer look at the equipment during a board meeting Monday as Fire Chief Dan Hammerberg described it as "a huge asset for Breitung Township and Dickinson County."

Township Supervisor Denny Olson said the need for such a vehicle has been discussed for 15 to 20 years and seeing it accomplished "really means a lot to me."

After reviewing bids in consultation with the fire department, the township board in May approved the purchase of a 2026 CF Moto UFORCE U10 Pro Highland XL from Redline Sport and Marine for $37,154, including firefighting specifications. Also accepted was a bid from Redline for quoted cargo components for $12,108.

Trustee Ben Peterson, owner of Redline, demonstrated the side-by-side's hose reel after board members joined department representatives for a photo. "A fantastic vehicle," Trustee Michael Day said.

During the bid reviews, Olson noted, Peterson abstained from participating. The wiring work that was needed to outfit the vehicle was done by Redline in-kind.

In another matter, board members voiced disappointment after learning delivery of a new fire truck has been delayed.

In a 3-2 vote in August 2025, the board approved the purchase of the Class A pumper truck through Reliant Fire Apparatus of Slinger, Wis., at a cost not to exceed $575,000, including upgrades totaling $17,840. The board also agreed to pay $275,000 upfront to earn a $19,092 early pay discount.

Delivery this year had been expected by mid-December, but Hammerberg said the date has now been pushed at least into January.

"We did our part and I think they owe us something," Olson said.

In other action, the township board:

-- Expects to replace about 130 fire signs beginning possibly in November along U.S. 2 -- both south and north of Iron Mountain -- and on M-95 from U.S. 2 north to Johnson Road. A total of $10,000 has been budgeted for signs and posts.

-- Noted a fall rubbish drop-off is scheduled from this Saturday through Sunday, Oct. 11. Hours are 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday; 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. each Saturday; and 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. each Sunday. Dumpsters for use by township residents will be placed in the gated area next to the Department of Public Works building at 3850 Menominee St., Quinnesec. Information on materials that will be accepted is available on the township website, https://www.breitungtownshipmi.gov/.

-- Accepted a proposal from the Central Upper Peninsula Planning and Development Regional Commission to assist with an audit of the township's zoning ordinance, including language that meets statutory requirements introduced in the past five to 10 years. The price is not to exceed $1,238, which includes 10 free hours as a CUPPAD member and up to 15 hours at $82.50 per hour. The township's planning commission has endorsed the review.

-- Approved the annual contribution of $4,500 to the Dickinson Area Economic Development Alliance.

-- Set a 2027 budget hearing for Monday, Nov. 23, with budget approval expected Monday, Dec. 14. The first budget workshop took place Monday.

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Jim Anderson can be reached at 906-774-3500, ext. 85226, or janderson@ironmountaindailiynews.com.

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