Local residents propose leasing east‑edge building as interim EMS site

Two residents, Angie Burke and her husband Wes Burke, presented a proposal to the Attica City Council to convert a showroom‑style building on the east edge of town into an interim EMS facility.

"We could start renovations 30 to 45 days after we have signed agreement," Angie Burke said, and she estimated "project completion could be approximately six months from the start date." She noted the space is roughly 3,500 square feet, has existing plumbing and adequate electric service for EMS needs, and could accommodate 10‑foot overhead doors for ambulance access.

Council members and staff asked about financing, maintenance and zoning. The Burkes said they could provide a letter of credit and were open to a long‑term lease with renewal options; they estimated an operating/lease cost example on the order of $5,000 per month (about $60,000 a year) and discussed the potential for county cost‑sharing. Staff cautioned that grant funds for a new build would require prevailing wages and that any lease or build needs to be budgeted in city processes.

Council members supported touring the site. The chief noted prior conversations with the county and that operational details (maintenance, utilities, staffing) would need formal agreements. No formal council vote was taken on a lease; the council moved to receive the proposal, ask staff to coordinate a site tour and gather financial/operational details for future consideration.

Public comment on the idea was broadly positive: residents called the option "refreshing" and a cost‑effective alternative to a new build. Council members emphasized that any formal approval would require budgeting and legal review.