WEIRTON — The Weirton Police Department could soon bring in a new recruit for its K-9 division, with the city’s fire department planning the purchase of new protective gear for some of its personnel.

The two were among several items discussed and recommended Thursday by the Weirton Finance Committee, and set to be considered by the full City Council tonight.

Council will vote on a resolution to purchase one dual-purpose narcotic and apprehension dog for the Weirton Police Department at a cost of $8,500.

Police Chief Charlie Kush explained this is part of a long-term plan for the K-9 division.

“We will have two retiring at the end of December,” Kush explained. “This is to replace.”

Kush previously explained the department’s goal is to have one K-9 unit assigned to each crew shift, for a total of four dogs and handlers.

With the retirements later this year, and the purchase of the new K-9, the department would have five, Kush noted, with four as part of the daily shifts and the fifth currently paired with Deputy Chief Scott Cook.

Also recommended to go before council is the purchase of four sets of protective firefighting coats, pants and boots at a cost of $16,771.

Fire Chief Kevin Himmelrick noted the department is trying to keep a schedule to ensure each firefighter has valid protective equipment available, and the hope is to make a purchase of four sets of gear every six months.

“It’s only legal for 10 years,” Himmelrick said.

Council also will be asked to purchase a 2022 Ford F-350 emergency utility vehicle for the fire department, at a cost of $122,617.48.

“It’s in the budget this year,” Finance Director Diana Smoljanovich said, explaining original plans had been to finance the purchase, but because of adjustments in timing with other purchases, there is enough cash available.

Other resolutions recommended Thursday by the Finance Committee include:

— An agreement with Blues Tree Service for the removal of one tree located behind 209 Beech Road at $3,950.

— A contract with Ferrari and Associates PLLC, at $22,750 per year, for audit services covering fiscal year 2022-22 and fiscal year 2022-23.

— The purchase of 1,000 luminaria from the Weirton Area Chamber of Commerce at $2,250.

— A payment to the Brooke-Hancock County Veterans Memorial Park Inc. of $5,000.

— The placement of liens on 323 Pennsylvania Ave., in the amount of $15,944.50, for demolition and asbestos testing and removal.

— The placement of liens of $17,219.50 on 3905 Adams St. for demolition and asbestos testing and removal.

— Revisions to the fiscal 2022-23 general fund budget.

— Revisions to the fiscal 2022-23 coal severance budget.

— The placement of liens of $32,324.50 at 3100 Hill St. for demolition and asbestos testing and removal costs.

— The transfer of ownership of a 2010 Chrysler Town and Country van from the city of Weirton to Weirton Transit Corp.