LE MARS, Iowa (Iowa Media Wire) — Asking for big bucks to build new city facilities can be a challenge, and that’s why Le Mars leaders are selling the story behind a bond measure for a new fire station.
So far, the bond, not to exceed $16 million, is getting mixed reviews from residents.
Over the course of an hour and a half, Le Mars Fire Chief David Schipper spoke to residents about the bond measure and why the multi-million dollar station is needed.
Officials said they’ve outgrown their current facility, and a new one would fix several problems. Some of which include improved accommodations for firefighters to make sure they are rested and ready when the call comes.
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While the fire chief said many people have reached out in support of the bond, with projects including upgrades at Le Mars Community School as well as a wastewater pre-treatment facility in the works, some residents are a little skeptical of adding another multi-million dollar project.
“If you put this vote in two years ago, probably would have voted yes. Unanimous. Timing-wise, it sucks,” said a Le Mars Resident.
“We’re out of room now. And so, yeah, it’s not the best timing, but when is a good time? You know, if we wait a year, then something else is going to come up and somebody is going to say, ‘Oh, it’s just good timing,’ you know? So as the chief, I need to bring it to people’s attention when it’s needed and let them decide,” said Chief Schipper.
Chief Schipper said this was a productive week for informing the community about the bond, with Monday night’s town hall having been a packed room.
