Fire Hall Project: FAQs

Why does the project cost so much? 
The cost of the project is estimated at $2.3 million. As a part of the total cost projection, the building itself is estimated at $1.8 million. The balance of the cost is for site prep, architectural/engineering fees, fees, permits, contingency, and a $360,000 escalation fee to cover a three year cost projection to construction. The sooner the facility is built, the less money it will cost.

Square footage costs for the building are comparable to like projects in the region and fit in with estimates from a number of architects as to the state averages for building a new fire facility.

Why does the facility need to be so large?
Actually, the facility isn’t that big. The total square footage in the building is around 7,900 square feet, smaller than other area fire stations. The current conceptual design represents the third revision of an early plan, with space adjustments being made at each revision. After consultation with area residents, firefighters, and board members, the architects developed the current plan as being representative of the minimum space needs to operate the district emergency services program.

Space is allotted for necessary operational activities, including adequate storage, safe parameters around parked vehicles, space for newer vehicles that are larger in size, adequate training space and an administrative area. The training room can serve as a space to house and meet the needs of community members displaced in a community disaster, as well as a gathering place for community activities.

Will my taxes increase? 
No. The Board of Directors of the Fire District made the decision several years ago to build the facility without increasing patron taxes. The capital fundraising campaign, being managed by the local non-profit group Gates Fire District Emergency Services Support (GFDESS), is designed to secure funding with local and regional donations from private citizens, businesses, corporations and foundations. There will be no tax increases to the tax payers to fund the facility’s construction.

Why did you choose this site? 
The site chosen for the placement of the facility was one of nine considered for the project.  Others were not chosen due to space configuration issues, high costs of securing the property, traffic safety hazards and so on. The current property was purchased from Marion County for 50% of its assessed value, and offered in-and-out access that minimized safety concerns for the volunteer firefighters and the public. Response times will not be affected by the new location. The site also has adequate room for facility expansion in the future should the need arise.