Statement:
The Capital Improvements Plan, included in the proposed 2005-06 City budget, identifies the reconstruction of fire station no. 2 as a capital improvement project scheduled to occur during the 2006-07 fiscal year. The May 4, 2005 council study session will provide staff with an opportunity to present to council the status of current planning efforts associated with this project. |
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Background:
A fire station location study was completed by the City of Ashland in 1993. The final report recommends that the City of Ashland maintain two fire stations sites within the city, and in the general geographical area where they presently exist. The study further recommended that both fire stations be examined with regard to upgrades to meet modern emergency services requirements. In 1995, a study was conducted to evaluate space needs within both municipal fire stations in response to concerns regarding health and safety deficiencies and inadequate work and fire apparatus garage space. The report recommended the replacement of both fire stations due to building age, poor design and the inability to cost effectively renovate either of the structures. It was also noted that the two existing fire station lots were of insufficient size to support the construction of adequate facilities. The 1999-00 Capital Improvement Plan identified reconstruction of both municipal fire stations as project goals in our long-range capital improvements plan. A bond issue was brought before the Ashland voters in November 1999 and approved for funding the reconstruction of fire station no. 1. In the year 2000 the fire department vacated fire station no. 1 and the building was demolished. Temporary fire department quarters were located in a modular building in the B Street public works yard until August 2003, when the new fire station was available for occupancy. Fire station no. 2 has been proposed for replacement in the 2007-08 Capital Improvement Plan, contingent on voter approval of a general obligation bond in the November 2006 election. Rick Harris of Coldwell Banker Pro West Real Estate has completed a property analysis study of suitable sites along the Ashland Street corridor for the reconstruction of fire station no. 2. He will be present at the study session to answer questions. |
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Related City Policies:
Fire and medical emergency response time standards have been established at 4 minutes for EMS services and 5 minutes for fire services. |
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Council Options:
Future Council actions required for this project will include the selection of a funding method for land acquisition, site preparation and building construction. If a general obligation bond is selected as the preferred funding method, Council will need to direct staff to prepare the measure for the November 2006 ballot election. |
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Staff Recommendation:
For information only. |
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Possible Motions:
None required. |
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Attachments:
• Memo from Finance Director Lee Tuneberg regarding City funding options. |
