anyone ever hear of the costar program? Apparently it's a program where volunteer fire depts. can purchase items at the state gov't prices. For example we got a flier for a 2010 gmc 4x4 3500 crew cab for $23700. Seems to good to be true. Thats why I'm asking.

Yes, as a fire/EMS department, you can apply to take advantage of COSTARS pricing on equipment by going to http://www.portal.state.pa.us/portal/server.pt/community/costars/1272. The pricing here is negotiated for state contract in for a lot of items the pricing isn't to bad. We recently ordered tables and chairs for the social hall from here. There are a lot of items available under the program, however make sure you read the bid information, like the truck you mention, you may have to go to Harrisburg or Philadelphia to get it as only one vendor in the state can provide that contract.

Thanks Matt. It's nice to know that someone local has used this program. We made some phone calls today and are trying to find a dealer closer. We did learn that any dealer will do the maintenance and that CC OES has bought vehicles through this.