In a recent city council meeting, Caldwell officials discussed the urgent relocation of Fire Station Number 1, emphasizing the need to finalize a site location to avoid wasting bond funds. Deputy Chief Bridal Daniels presented the fire department's preference for the former city hall site, citing its strategic importance for maintaining rapid response times and community presence in downtown Caldwell.

Daniels clarified that the city already owns the proposed sites, including the current fire station lot and the Chicago property, eliminating the need for real estate transactions. He outlined the estimated costs associated with relocating to the city hall site, which include $725,000 for demolition and site improvements, compared to $650,000 to $734,000 for the Chicago site, which would require additional grading and infrastructure work due to its higher flood zone classification.

Concerns were raised about the economic implications of the site selection. Some council members argued that relocating the fire station to the Chicago site could free up valuable downtown real estate for potential tax-generating businesses. However, fire officials stressed that moving the station further from the downtown area would increase response times, potentially jeopardizing public safety, especially in a region with many older, non-sprinklered buildings.

The discussion also touched on the impact of future developments in the city, with some council members suggesting that as Caldwell expands, a new fire station may be needed in the northern areas. The fire department acknowledged this growth but maintained that the immediate priority should be ensuring effective emergency response in the downtown core.

As the council deliberates, the fire department seeks final approval to proceed with planning for the city hall site, emphasizing the critical balance between fiscal responsibility and public safety in their decision-making process. The council aims to reach a resolution by the next meeting, with the clock ticking on the bond funds allocated for this project.