Ames council approves $10.5 million bond measure to relocate Fire Station No. 2 to ISU property; debate centers on net‑zero costs and tax impact

The Ames City Council voted 4–1 on Tuesday to place a $10,500,000 general obligation bond referendum on the Nov. 4 ballot to fund construction, furnishing and equipping of a replacement Fire Station No. 2 on Iowa State University property.

The resolution authorizes the city to enter a loan agreement and issue bonds not to exceed $10.5 million if voters approve the measure. Councilmember Wallace, Councilmember Coriari, Councilmember Zheng and Councilmember Petcher voted aye; Councilmember Gartner voted nay.

Council members and staff framed the proposal as a long‑term public‑safety investment, while several council members urged caution about added costs and tax implications. "We're talking about estimates of cost," said Steve, the fire chief, emphasizing that design and final pricing would follow if the referendum passes. Councilmember Tim said he would vote against putting the measure on the ballot because the addition of roughly $1.245 million for net‑zero upgrades made the project less likely to win the 60% approval the city requires. "I'm gonna vote against this, and I want to be really clear why," Tim said.

Why the project is on the ballot

City staff told the council the planned relocation would speed emergency response across the city, reduce traffic conflicts in the Campustown/Welch Avenue area and create redevelopment opportunities on the current Welch Avenue site. Staff said Iowa State has offered a site at no cost to the city under a long‑term lease; final lease terms and Board of Regents approval are required after the election.

Size, features and cost

Staff presented a conceptual design with about 12,925 square feet (reduced from an original program of 14,810 square feet through value engineering). The plan adds ADA‑compliant fixtures, a fourth apparatus bay sized for double‑depth storage, a sealed gear room and…