Casa Grande is grappling with the challenge of constructing a new fire station in the face of a substantial increase in emergency calls, even after voters rejected bonds intended to fund the project. The proposed Fire Station 503, initially estimated at $7M, has seen its projected cost soar to $13.9M, primarily due to factors like material shortages caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
City Council members expressed surprise and concern about the significant cost escalation, especially considering the original estimate. They stressed the importance of fiscal responsibility, given the recent rejection of the bond proposal, indicating that community priorities and budget constraints must be carefully weighed.
Fire Chief Dave Kean emphasized the urgent need for the new fire station, citing the strain on the Fire Department in responding to the growing volume of emergency calls from Casa Grande’s expanding population. The necessity for the fire station remains.
The discussions between city officials and the fire chief underscore the complexity of budgeting for crucial public safety infrastructure while balancing safety and financial prudence. Further deliberations and exploration of cost-saving strategies are expected as the city works to address its fire station requirements while respecting community sentiments and financial realities. (Source)
