Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Public Safety topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Commissioners approve Fire Station X design contract and multiple apparatus purchases
Summary
The board approved a fixed‑price architectural contract for a new Fire/EMS Station X and authorized purchases and budget amendments for several departments, including a replacement command vehicle for Robins, a refurbishment for 7 Lakes' mobile air rescue, and approval for West End's engine chassis payment plan.
Moore County commissioners approved several public‑safety procurements and contract actions Oct. 7, moving forward with a new Fire/EMS station design and multiple apparatus purchases.
The board unanimously approved a fixed‑price contract with Ramsey Bergen Smith Architects for architectural and engineering services for Fire Station X at a cost of $125,008 (funds allocated from the pandemic recovery capital project account). Public Safety Director Brian Phillips said the site is "site ready" and the contract will produce construction documents so the county can issue a request for proposals for building contractors.
On apparatus and vehicle matters, commissioners approved Robins Fire Department's request to replace a totaled 2016 command vehicle with a 2026 Chevrolet 2500‑4x4 crew truck with shell and emergency lighting. The total purchase cost presented was about $68,001; using the county's funding split and insurance reimbursement, Phillips said the county portion would be $40,002.24.
The board also approved a refurbishment of 7 Lakes Fire & Rescue's 1999 mobile air/rescue vehicle at an estimated cost not to exceed $167,219.14. Chief representatives told the board refurbishment would save substantial taxpayer dollars compared with buying a new specialty apparatus that could cost several hundred thousand dollars to more than $600,000.
For West End Fire & Rescue, commissioners approved acquisition of a replacement engine (1,750 gpm pump / 1,000 gallon tank) and authorized the county to pay for the chassis on delivery to reduce the overall cost by approximately $46,003.68; staff and the department said the chassis delivery is expected in roughly 11 months and full apparatus delivery will follow. The West End chief noted vendor lead times and industry supply issues and said the department explored five vendor bids; chosen quotes reflected market price volatility for chassis and emissions systems.
Board members and chiefs noted supply‑chain and equipment price volatility across the fire apparatus market, with some speakers warning total outfitted costs for new engines can exceed $1 million. Commissioners approved associated budget amendments to transfer funds and authorize disbursements for the purchases.
The board praised local fire personnel and said the county will continue working with departments on financing, delivery schedules and grants when available.
