Village Considers New Fire Station

Taxes Are a Consideration

 
The Village of Lansing's Board of Trustees considered the requirement for a new fire house in Monday's meeting.  The current facility needs to be replaced, because it is below standard in bunking capability and in its ability to support the new fire trucks.

Mayor Don Hartill expressed concern that a new fire station that has been proposed will cost too much and have to be relocated to a two acre plot of land.  He said he would talk to the consulting architect about the possibility of  replacing the sprawling "hacienda-style" design with a two-story design that would use less land.  If relocated, the station could be placed in a residential area, as State Law does not restrict fire stations to commercially zoned locations.

Trustee John O'Neill  spoke to the impact on taxes to residents.  He said there would be a 4% tax increase in 2006, a 2% rise in 2007 and 2008, none in 2009, then another 2% increase in both 2010 and 2011.  Mayor Hartill noted that if that figure is 4% of the tax levy it would not affect residents' taxes, but if it is 4% on the tax rate it will.  Mr. O'Neill  through it would be on the levy, but promised to follow up on which it is.

50% of emergency calls in Lansing come from the village, including Emergency Medical Service (EMS) calls.  While Bangs Ambulance service handles the EMS calls, Lansing Rescue is also called to provide support.