The city of Medford is home to a fire station that has reached a significant milestone - it is 50 years old. In 2023, after a thorough inspection, the city revealed that this station is in poor condition. This has led to a series of actions and approvals to address the issue.

Approval of New Appropriations

The city of Medford has approved a new set of appropriations for the 2023-25 biennium. A substantial portion of these funds is dedicated to the construction of Fire Station 15. On Thursday, Dec. 5, the city council passed Council Bill 2024-128. This bill created a new fund, Fund 150 - the Fire Facilities Construction Fund. More than $6.5 million is being moved into this fund to kickstart the construction process.Fire Station 15 is located on Roberts Road adjacent to North Medford High School. Its age and the resulting wear and tear have taken a toll, as documented in city council documents. In 2023, all fire stations in the city underwent an inspection. Station 15 received the lowest grade by a wide margin, a D. Meanwhile, three other stations achieved an A grade, and one received a B grade.A significant portion of the construction funds is coming from bonds that the city sold to cover the costs. Additionally, $4 million has been appropriated from the general fund to cover the remaining expenses. Appropriated funds are already in the city's accounts or funds and are either transferred to a different fund or designated for a specific purpose.The need for a new and improved fire station is evident. Fire Station 15 plays a crucial role in serving the community, and its current condition poses a risk. The construction efforts aim to ensure that this vital facility is up to par and can continue to serve the city effectively.The city's decision to allocate these funds and undertake the construction project shows its commitment to the safety and well-being of its residents. It is a step towards providing a more reliable and efficient fire service.With the approval of these appropriations and the start of construction, there is hope for the future of Fire Station 15. The community can look forward to a modern and well-equipped fire station that will serve them well for years to come.