Lake Forest approves $651,000 design contract for fire station renovation

The Lake Forest City Council voted 8–0 on Aug. 4 to authorize the city manager to execute a professional services contract with White and Company for design and cost‑estimating services for a planned renovation of the city’s fire station. Fire Chief Andy Rick and city staff described space constraints in the existing facility — including undersized sleeping areas, bathrooms, locker rooms and equipment bays — and said the police department’s planned relocation will free space for expansion. The contract authorization is for $620,000 with a 5% contingency, for a total authorization of $651,000, to produce design, construction drawings and cost estimates. Chief Rick and Assistant Director of Public Works Jim Lockfeer presented the selection process. Staff said nine proposals were received, four firms were interviewed, and White and Company was recommended based on experience with fire stations, a dedicated project team, and the lowest cost proposal among the finalists. City staff told the council they currently anticipate funding the project through the city’s pay‑as‑you‑go capital model rather than issuing debt; finance staff will present capital and debt forecasts at fall workshops. The council approved the contract by roll-call vote; members recorded as voting "Aye" were Aldermen Weber, Walther, Novick, Clemens, Knowles, Powers, Lavert and Boxfeld. The motion carried 8–0. Staff said design work would proceed while the police department project continues, with a 12–18 month design and construction timeline tied to the police move-out schedule.