ISLE OF WIGHT CO. - With the spring 2010 closure of International Paper's mill in Franklin, the Isle of Wight County Board of Supervisors is delaying a request for a new rescue vehicle.

Lt. Denny West says the Smithfield Fire Department has outgrown its current rescue vehicle and the new vehicle, with a price tag of $600,000, would help them better serve the community.

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Board member Stan Clark says it's a case of bad timing.  He says the county expects to lose $5.6 million when IP closes, so officials have to begin budgeting wisely.

He's not sure the county can afford to spend the money right now.

Clark, who's been on the board for 10 years, notes this is the first time supervisors have hesitated to approve a request by the fire department.

The issue has been tabled until December 17.