Orrville Council authorizes RFQ for architectural services for Fire Station 2 expansion

Orrville City Council on April 21 adopted Resolution 16-25 to authorize advertising for requests for qualifications (RFQ) or proposals and to enter into a contract without bidding for architectural services for the Fire Station Number 2 expansion project, declaring an emergency to move the procurement forward.

Safety-Service Director Mr. Wheeler summarized prior work: the city has worked from a two‑year‑old contractor quote and is now seeking updated architectural estimates and conceptual layouts so council and staff have current numbers. Wheeler said he budgeted $50,000 for architectural services but cautioned the amount "is probably going to be a little low." He also reported a federal funding request submitted through Congressman Max Miller’s office remains under consideration.

Wheeler explained Station Number 2 sits on Crown Hill adjacent to Crown Hill Cemetery and, based on prior contractor review, offered the most feasible footprint for expansion. He said the RFQ process should be expected to take time: council members and staff discussed an aggressive 45‑day timeline but Wheeler advised "at least 60" days for the RFQ plus 90–120 days afterwards to get numbers and concepts back; council members estimated the project could have firmer numbers by late fall if the process moves promptly.

Council voted to suspend the three‑reading rule and adopted Resolution 16-25 that night. Recorded affirmative votes during adoption included Esparris/Espiras, Lacks, Davies, Carr, Shanklin and Squirrel. The resolution directs staff to proceed with an RFQ/RFP process to obtain architectural services; council did not commit additional funds beyond the budgeted amount at the meeting.