Council approves Strux Engineering feasibility scope after USDA grant pre‑approval

City Manager Josh Walker told councilors the City had been pre-approved for a USDA Rural Development grant of $50,000 to support a new fire station and recommended hiring Strux Engineering, LLC (Levi Voigt) to perform a feasibility study and preliminary design. Walker presented a scope of work and a not-to-exceed amount, which he described as roughly $4,000 for the initial study and drawings addressing apparatus pull-through, ODOT rig specifications and site alternatives.

Mayor Andrea Combs called for a vote after councilors reviewed the scope and cost estimate. Councilor Bill Williams moved to approve the expenditure and Councilor Brad Smith seconded; “All were in favor, motion passed,” and the council authorized the scope of work with Strux Engineering. Walker told the council that having design documents in hand would increase competitiveness for additional grants and that the firm’s local ties could provide a more personal approach to the project.