The relocation of Fire Station No. 4 has been part of the City's long-term capital improvement planning since 2014, and in 2022, it was included in the 5-year Capital Improvement Plan. Design work for the new station was initially scheduled for 2022-23, with construction to follow upon completion of the design phase.
In February 2022, it was approved by the City Commission, authorizing the design and construction of the new Fire Station No. 4. It also authorized the issuance of Temporary Notes and/or General Obligation Bonds, not exceeding $5,000,000, to cover associated costs, including design and construction.
In March 2023, the City Commission gave authorization to the City Manager to execute an agreement with WSKF Architects for Phase 1. WSKF Architects collaborated with a committee of fire department personnel to determine departmental needs and consulted representatives of the art community to integrate public art into the design.
However, the inclusion of a public art component, amounting to $400,000, has sparked controversy among residents. The Community Art & Design Advisory Committee (CAD) recommended dedicating a portion of the construction budget for art or an integrated design element, representing approximately 4.5% of the total project cost.
While some argue that public art enhances the aesthetic appeal and cultural richness of the community, others have raised concerns about the hefty price tag. The proposal has ignited a broader conversation about the prioritization of funds in municipal projects, particularly in essential services like fire stations.
A preliminary schematic design was presented in September 2023, with an estimated construction cost exceeding $10 million. To manage costs, the committee reviewed the design and identified areas for modification, resulting in a final schematic design with an approximate construction cost of $9.4 million, equivalent to $479 per square foot.
As the project moves forward, the fate of the $400,000 allocated for public art remains uncertain, with residents and officials alike awaiting further deliberations on how best to balance artistic expression with fiscal responsibility in the development of Fire Station No. 4.