Lake Oswego Fire Task Force proposes new station after assessing community needs

The March 4 City Council meeting in Lake Oswego, Oregon, focused on several key agenda items, including an appeal regarding tree removal, approval of meeting minutes, and a significant presentation on the South Shore Fire Station Task Force recommendations.

The meeting commenced with the council addressing an appeal concerning the Development Review Commission's approval of an application to remove 22 trees at 233 E Avenue for on-site improvements. Following this, the council approved the meeting minutes from January 5 and February 4, with a motion made by Councillor Corrigan and seconded by Councillor Mbeau. The motion passed with a vote of 6-0, with Councillor Raff abstaining.

The primary focus of the meeting was a study session led by the South Shore Fire Station Task Force. Chair Chris Durkee, along with Assistant Fire Chief Christine Grama and Management Analyst Quinn Bruner, presented findings from a comprehensive needs assessment conducted in response to community feedback. The task force was formed following a community survey indicating over 50% support for investing in the South Shore Fire Station project.

Durkee outlined five directives given to the task force, which included reviewing community coverage needs and existing facility conditions. The task force held six meetings, resulting in eight key findings. Among these findings, the task force concluded that the current South Shore Fire Station has reached the end of its useful life, citing significant deficiencies such as inadequate seismic upgrades, sewage issues, and insufficient emergency power capabilities.

The task force emphasized the necessity of a new fire station in the Southeast quadrant of Lake Oswego to maintain citywide service levels. They presented data showing that without the South Shore Fire Station, response times would significantly increase, impacting emergency services and potentially endangering lives.

To address these needs, the task force recommended commissioning a preliminary design and budget estimate for a new station, as well as initiating a community engagement effort. The proposed new fire station would be designed to meet the needs of the Lake Oswego Fire Department for the next 50 years, with a total area of approximately 14,000 square feet, including adequate space for apparatus, living quarters, and public-facing areas.

The meeting concluded with a commitment from the council to further explore the recommendations and engage the community in discussions about the future of the South Shore Fire Station. The next steps will involve detailed planning and continued community involvement to ensure the project aligns with the needs of Lake Oswego residents.