It was standing room only at the Oregon City Council meeting held Tuesday night.
Many local residents came out to support the new proposal and variance needed to allow the Oregon Fire Protection District to construct non-conforming addition to the existing building that was originally built in 1985.
Fire Chief Michael Knoup gave a presentation explaining the need for proper sleeping accommodations for firefighters on duty, along with bigger bays to hold newer modern firetrucks, rescue boats and equipment that are currently housed in another building off site.
Currently the basement has been turned into a makeshift office and there are only two beds in a cramped space upstairs usually meaning a fireman sleeps on the couch. Mayor Ken Williams thanked the residents for showing up in large numbers to show their support for their city.
Knoup went on to explain that the cost for the expansion will be approximately 4.1 million dollars which will be paid back through a 20-year bond using existing tax revenue and not raising property taxes.
Council member Melanie Cozzi had concerns about maintaining the green spaces around the firehouse and Knoup reassured her that improvements will be coming including new asphalt around the area used for the annual Farmer’s Market.
There was additional talk about relocating the firehouse making way for more greenspace, cafes, and restaurants along the river possibly attracting tourism. Residents got up and voiced their displeasure of that proposal.
The council unanimously approved the request with one recuse which brought loud applause from the chambers.
