The Hydrant Gap

The fire hydrant question is one of the most serious issues on Elgin’s agenda. There are not enough hydrants, especially on Main Street. I have to go across the street and down towards town before I can get to a hydrant and my rope does not extend that far, so it has to be on specials “walks” that I utilize this essential piece of equipment.

I have investigated the purchase of new equipment and mapped out a proposed fire hydrant coverage map of the city, which is available upon polite request. I recommend the Model 872B which features the permanent blow off assembly with the air/vacuum valve just beneath the service tap. They will of course feature the standard fire hose thread for the odd ancillary work of fire fighters. The Concrete thrust blocking will parallel the service tap and feature a breakaway doohickey. All deviations from this standard shall be approved in advance in the Mayor’s office. As a special perquisite of office there will be a special blue hydrant just outside my abode on South Main Street, which is no more than 15 feet 7 inches from our front steps.

The new Elgin hydrants will be programmed with an automatic annual flush on 4th July for which residents must be prepared.