(KNZA)--The Hiawatha City Commission Monday evening approved a pair of street repair projects.

At the request of Public Works Director Brad Scott, the commission approved a quote from J & B Contractors for concrete repairs at the intersections of 4th and Miami Streets and 6th and Miami Streets at a cost of $9,187.

Scott said since the completion of the recent streets projects there have been issues with the concrete failing at the construction joints at the two intersections. In addition, there is also an issue with the height of the sewer manholes located at 4th and Miami Streets.

With the elementary school out for summer break, Scott said now would be the best time to move forward with the project before school starts again in the fall.

Later in the meeting, Scott said a portion of 3rd Street that used to be gravel needs to be refinished with asphalt before this summer's chip seal project, which he has requested the county push back. The commission approved the repairs at a cost of $12,000.

In other business, Fire Chief Patrick Sheldon appeared before the commission to discuss the purchase of a new brush truck.

Sheldon received a quote from Hays Fire and Rescue for the purchase of a 2023 Ford F-550 at a cost of $168,000, with a 500 gallon tank.

It would replace the department's main response truck, which is a 1990 model that is no longer dependable. Sheldon said the truck has died three times while at fires.

He requested that $131,000 allocated in the budget for a building addition go toward the vehicle purchase.

The Commission took no action. Mayor Becky Shamburg said she wasn't ready to make a decision and asked that the commission be given more time to consider the request. Commissioner Brian Shefferd requested Sheldon have the current truck checked out again.