Private donors have pledged more than $1 million for the purchase and maintenance of the boat so no tax payer dollars are involved. The council has asked for proof of the pledge and more information before considering this issue further.

The fire department has stated the boat is critical for water rescues and would include a trained dive team. Currently, when an emergency arises on the river, rescue personnel must wait for someone to operate a boat owned by Douglas County. The wait could be crucial when a life is at stake.

Fire officials did ask the county last April for permission to operate their boat when needed but heard no response from them so they moved forward with this request. The county has stated they are even planning on purchasing a second boat for lake rescues.

With the increased boat traffic on the river, especially in the Omaha area, the idea of the OFD having its own rescue boat just seems to make sense.