During a special town meeting Sept. 8, Edgecomb voters approved a $575,000 bond for the construction of a new fire station.
“This is a major step forward, congratulations Edgecomb,” said moderator Rick Elder.
The current station has no running water or restrooms and routine vehicle checks are done outside of the building, posing a serious challenge to volunteer firefighters.
Assistant Fire Chief Larry Omland, in previous comments, summed up the dire situation by saying “we don’t have an emergency operating center. Right now it’s in my car.”
The new design will have a 2000 square foot administrative wing, a multi-use training room, office space and bathrooms. It also includes a 60 by 80 foot apparatus bay to house fire engines with additional room for future equipment.
“Tonight brings us one step closer to our vision. Our fire department works hard and they deserve a building with adequate space and areas to train. It’s imperative for overall public safety and the overwhelming support from the town speaks volumes. This is a very positive development,” said Selectman Jessica Chubbuck.
The new fire station will be built behind the existing one on Cross Point Road with groundbreaking, pending architectural finalization, to begin in the near future.
The 15-0 vote by the town was briefly amended to include a full financial validity clause but the motion was withdrawn due to administrative time concerns. The financial burden will be eased somewhat when $137,500 from a previous bond comes off the books Nov. 1.
In other business, the Selectmen appointed David Nutt as Alternate Planning Board Member. The Board of Selectman is scheduled to meet again Sept. 27.
