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Story County advances public safety projects: property purchase, sheriff substation design, justice center RFQ
Summary
The board authorized purchase of property adjacent to Fire Station 72 (not to exceed $135,000), approved a $150,665 architectural contract for a McCarran sheriff substation remodel, and authorized the Justice Center RFQ process to move forward; the fire district also approved dependent coverage increasing to 100% effective July 1, 2026.
County commissioners on June 16 approved several public‑safety and facility items intended to expand capacity for fire and law enforcement services.
The Fire Protection District requested authorization to purchase a parcel adjacent to Fire Station 72 (APN O3-361-08) based on a March 25, 2026 appraisal, with total purchase costs not to exceed $135,000. Fire Chief Bob Riser said staff had negotiated a purchase agreement with school district review and asked for permission to open escrow and complete title work; the board approved the purchase unanimously.
The board also accepted an architectural and engineering design contract with Dubet Group Architecture for tenant improvements and design of a McCarran substation remodel (Sheriff's Office project) at a not‑to‑exceed fee of $150,665, with reimbursable expenses up to $2,500; the project will be funded in part by a USDA rural development grant and county funds. Project manager Kevin Selstrom said the design will focus on public access, interview spaces and mission‑critical functions.
In fire labor matters, the board approved a memorandum of understanding with the Story County Firefighters Association Local 4227 to transition dependent insurance coverage from 80% to 100% effective July 1, 2026, so tax and payroll timing align with the upcoming fiscal year.
Separately, staff reported that the Justice Center RFQ closed that afternoon and that review of proposals will proceed with a multi‑member panel; staff said they hope to return with a recommended design firm this summer to move the project into design.
What it means: The actions add near‑term capacity and planning for county safety services and facilities, including site control adjacent to a fire station, a designed sheriff substation, and a funded design process for a new justice facility.
Next steps: Staff will proceed with escrow and title for the Fire Station 72 parcel; the county manager will sign the architecture contract for the substation following grant acceptance; the RFQ evaluation team will review responses and return with a recommended architect for the Justice Center.
