Council compares expanding on-site versus building across the street as utility needs drive costs

Councilors compared two practical site strategies: add on to the existing station (which already has utilities) or build a new station across the street (which would require new utility connections). Staff said the new build option would require electrical service, water, sewer and HVAC and would therefore add considerable upfront cost compared with an addition that taps existing systems.

Speakers noted that a new site could offer longer-term advantages, such as better highway access for some calls, but added that the added utility work would increase both cost and schedule. No decision was reached; staff will measure the parcel, refine footprint sketches and report back with clearer cost comparisons.