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Board approves $320,000 for land purchase to replace constrained Balsam Grove fire station
Summary
The Board approved purchase of a 2.90‑acre parcel on Highway 215 for $300,000 plus $20,000 in due diligence costs to enable a new fire station and support 24‑hour staffing; funding will come from the department personnel line and the countywide fire district reserve.
Fire Marshal Scott Justus reported that an architect review found expansion of the existing Balsam Grove station infeasible due to site constraints and septic issues. As an alternative, staff identified a 2.90‑acre property on Highway 215 suitable for a new station; geotechnical and septic testing were favorable.
The Board approved purchase of the site for $300,000 with an additional $20,000 for due diligence and closing costs (total $320,000). Funding sources identified included $240,000 from the fire department’s personnel line—reflecting the need for additional space to support 24‑hour staffing—and $80,000 from the countywide fire service district tax reserve. Commissioners discussed property valuation (assessed at $68,000) and the need to avoid moving too far from the current station to protect response ratings.
Commissioner Jake Dalton moved to approve the purchase and funding approach; Commissioner Larry Chapman seconded and the motion passed unanimously. Staff noted the department is pursuing Congressionally‑directed spending and other grants that could reduce local match requirements.
