Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Public Safety topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Commission declines to commit to new fire hall after funding concerns
Summary
Fire department leaders presented an 11,000–14,000 sq ft fire hall concept with initial cost estimates near $1.8–$2.0 million. Commissioners said they need firm financing and bid pricing before committing; a motion to pursue construction failed.
Clayton Burkey, identified as Lachman fire chief, and other fire department representatives presented a draft request for proposals for a consolidated fire hall and equipment storage facility during the Feb. 9 Washburn City Commission meeting. Burkey told the commission the design would give the department consolidated space for equipment and operations and allow faster emergency response on Highway 83.
"If we want to get a handle on the specific cost, we're going to need to get some bids," Burkey said, urging the commission to authorize an RFP so contractors could provide firm prices. Mike Dura, a department member, gave the commission a ballpark estimate: "I would say realistically we're looking at, like, $1,800,000, but to be safe, budget $2,000,000." Both presenters said the RFP package would ask design-build teams to supply stamped engineering and site plans and to propose construction schedules.
Commissioners and residents focused on financing, timing and local tax impacts. Several raised concerns about the city's ability to take another large loan while other capital projects and special assessments remain outstanding. One commissioner said the project would impose an unsustainable immediate burden on residents facing multiple special assessments. Others suggested seeking grant funding, rural-district participation for equipment costs, or scaling the project back.
Commission debate included repeated cautions about construction inflation and the limited value of speculative estimates. Commissioners discussed low-probability federal grants, possible donations in-kind (concrete donations were mentioned), and the prospect of long-term City borrowing through Bank of North Dakota or local lenders, but no funding package was identified.
The commission considered a motion to affirmatively pursue the project and solicit bids. The motion was seconded but did not carry; commissioners who voiced the need for additional fact-finding and a clearer finance plan voted against committing to construction at this time. The fire department agreed to continue refining the RFP, explore financing options and return to the commission with more complete cost and funding proposals.
The commission did not authorize spending or a solicitation contract; members said they will revisit the issue only after receiving precise bid pricing and clearer loan or grant commitments.
