Council advances Fire Station 2 design contract and five‑year fire‑reporting software renewal

Councilman Jones, chair of the public safety committee, led discussion of two items affecting the Fire Bureau. Fire leadership described longstanding facility needs at Station 2 (140 N. 16th St., Allison Hill), saying "This station has not had major repairs to the bedroom or bathroom facilities since it was built in 1980." Chief staff said the existing sleeping area uses Murphy beds with no privacy and that showers and bathroom dividers are deteriorated; the bureau requested architectural services to design modernized bedrooms, private showers and restroom facilities, and improved storage. Administration told council the city secured a Commonwealth grant of $83,475 for the project and has budgeted $250,000 in the general fund; the architectural contract with SGS would cost about $54,000 and includes construction‑management services in its proposal.

On software, the chief described the department’s reporting and records platform and said the renewal with Locality Media (doing business as First Due) is a five‑year contract totaling roughly $123,731.32 to $124,000 (figures cited in discussion varied) to be paid from the fire bureau’s software line in the general fund. Staff said the longer term locks in pricing and helps the bureau prepare for state reporting changes in 2026 and integration with regional CAD systems.

No formal votes occurred at the work session; Councilman Jones moved both resolutions (77 and 78) to the next legislative session for formal votes. Council members praised the safety benefits and the administration’s work to secure grant support and to plan similar work for Station 1 in the subsequent budget cycle.