Woburn Council approves $30 million bond for two fire stations after auditor says debt fits budget

The Woburn City Council voted 8–1 on Oct. 1 to appropriate $30 million and authorize borrowing to reconstruct two fire stations, concluding a months-long discussion about public safety needs and taxpayer impact.

City Auditor Charlie Doherty told the council his analysis with bond counsel shows the city would likely borrow at about 3.25 percent and face roughly $1.8 million in annual debt service for the bond. He said scheduled reductions in other principal-and-interest payments over the next two years would make the new debt manageable within the existing budget. "We would be able to borrow at 3 and a quarter because of our triple-A rating," Doherty said, adding that existing debt payments are set to decline and that the new bond "could easily fit into the budget."

Supporters urged approval on public-safety grounds. Councilors described deplorable conditions at Stations 4 and 5 — citing asbestos, mold, faulty wiring and inadequate sleeping quarters — and said the facilities no longer meet modern needs for equipment and personnel. "These stations are deplorable," one councilor said, noting that the department now needs space for larger apparatus and gender-appropriate quarters. Several councilors described tours of the stations and said rising call volumes and daytime population growth make investment urgent.

Opponents cautioned about cumulative spending. One councilor said the city is "overspending in general" and expressed concern about the aggregate burden on taxpayers, even while acknowledging the need to address fire-station conditions.

After debate, the council adopted the order by roll call. The motion passed 8–1. The council did not change the bond amount on the floor; the measure moves forward as approved.

The council’s next procedural step will be the formalities of issuing the bond and completing any required public notices and financing steps required by bond counsel.