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Council approves feasibility study to reevaluate fire station options, authorizes up to $12,000
Summary
An ad‑hoc committee recommended—and the council approved—a feasibility study by an architect to determine whether to renovate the existing fire station or build replacement living quarters; staff said the cost would be about $12,000 and the motion passed 2–1.
The council approved an ad‑hoc committee recommendation to hire an architectural firm to conduct a feasibility study on the existing fire station and the proposal for updated living quarters for firefighters.
City staff and the committee described three broad options previously discussed: renovate the existing station, demolish and rebuild a replacement facility, or build a new modest metal structure and leave the historic building. Committee members said they need clearer cost and "test‑fit" information before choosing a path. An architect firm (Gary Baker and Associates) told the committee it could perform the study — including site interviews, a conceptual layout and cost range — for about $12,000. The council voted to approve the feasibility study authorization; the motion passed 2–1.
Firefighters who addressed the council said they strongly prefer removing or replacing the current building because it has long‑standing maintenance, plumbing and air‑quality issues; staff noted the building’s last major interior work was decades ago and that hidden problems (asbestos, structural ties) can drive up renovation costs. Committee members said a feasibility study would give the council firmer numbers and layouts so it can compare realistic renovation costs against replacement options.
Staff said temporary living quarters for firefighters will be provided in the near term while the committee and staff complete study work and formal budgeting.
