Neenah council discusses but declines directive on Station 31 remodel; plans committee review after bids

City of Neenah council members on Aug. 6 heard a detailed presentation on the planned remodel of Fire Station 31 at Breezewood Lane and related training-ground work and voted down a council directive that would have formally required a pros-and-cons debate about building new versus remodeling the existing station. Chief Tash of Neenah‑Menasha Fire Rescue laid out the scope of a complete renovation, the project timeline and how shared non‑fire costs will be split. The motion to create the directive failed 6 noes to 3 ayes.

The presentation described the project as a complete remodel that strips existing exterior and interior finishes down to the structure, replaces HVAC and plumbing systems, reconfigures dormitories into private bunk rooms, adds drive‑through apparatus bays and expands fitness, locker and decontamination facilities. Chief Tash said, “This is a complete remodel,” and explained the design responds to deficiencies identified in prior consultant studies.

Why the council should care: the work affects shared operations for a joint department, changes how station space is used for…