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Board approves $1.45 million plan to expand EMS Station 1 with five‑bay garage and offices
Summary
The commissioners approved a contract award for an EMS Station 1 expansion that includes a five‑bay garage plus office and training space; the recommended contractor is David E. Luper Incorporated with a total recommended contract of about $1,445,153 and a 5% contingency.
Alexander County commissioners unanimously approved a contract recommendation in March 2025 to construct an addition to EMS Station 1, including a five‑bay apparatus garage and office and training space to house emergency vehicles and personnel.
Public Works/Facilities Director Josh Mitchell presented the bid results: seven bids were received and David E. Luper Incorporated (appearing in the packet as the lowest responsive, responsible bidder) submitted a package that the county recommended for award. The recommended contract amount including the alternate (garage plus 4,500 square feet of office/training space), additional line‑item adjustments and bond was presented at $1,445,153; Mitchell also recommended a 5 percent construction contingency of $72,257 to cover overruns and unforeseen conditions.
Mitchell said the base 4,500‑square‑foot garage would provide storage for a quick response vehicle (QRV), a primary ambulance and backup ambulances, which are currently stored outdoors or in a carport. The alternate includes administrative offices, a training room and spaces for billing, a training officer, community paramedic, medical supply and medication storage.
Commission discussion addressed project funding. The county manager and staff said approximately $750,000 had been awarded from the state; other portions of the project will use opioid settlement funds (for proportionate public‑health purposes) and the general fund. The manager said budget amendments and funding sources would be addressed in forthcoming budget documents; staff indicated the board would see a budget amendment covering the county share.
A commissioner emphasized the service impact of station improvements: "That's the only emergency room we got is these ambulance bases," noting an aging population and rising call volume. After discussion a motion to approve the full alternate (garage plus offices/training space) passed unanimously.
