The Village Board reviewed cost estimates for two options to upgrade the fire station. Staff presented scheme B (remodel/addition) and scheme C (larger addition/double‑stack garages) and provided line‑item subtotals: scheme B construction estimated at roughly $3.8M (with a north asphalt component raising that figure toward $3.9M) and scheme C near $4.5M. Staff warned that adding professional fees (estimated at roughly 10%), contingencies, generator replacement, reroofing and furnishings (beds, kitchen appliances, lockers and turnout‑gear washers/dryers) could push the all‑in cost toward or above the 2026 referendum threshold the board cited (approximately $4.475M).

Trustees discussed whether the board must formally support sending a referendum question to the voters: legal counsel advised that state law requires the board vote to send a binding referendum question and that boards must follow statutory language and restrictions for using municipal resources in referendum communications. Trustees also debated timing (August primary or November general election), whether to phase the project or present a single package, and whether to include both remodel and new‑building options on the ballot. Several trustees urged placing a question before voters; others cautioned the detailed cost and timing implications and asked staff to provide legal guidance on binding versus advisory referendum language and deadlines.

Operational concerns surfaced as well: cost estimators and trustees noted that significant renovations in an occupied station typically require vacating that portion of the building during construction, which would add relocation costs and complexity. Staff said they will return with legal guidance and more detailed planning information on referendum options and timelines before the board makes any formal decision about a ballot question.

Next steps: legal counsel and staff will report back on whether a binding or advisory referendum is permissible in the desired timeframe and on the implications for deadlines and outreach; trustees deferred any referendum motion to allow for that research.