A new fire station is on the horizon for the city of Sacramento. Recently, the Department for Local Government had approved funding for a $500,000 Community Development Block Grant for the city that will be used to construct a new fire station in the community.
The city is seeking a .47-mill, 20-year tax for a $6.1 million bond. The cost for a resident with a $100,000 market value home is $23.50 a year. The request would generate $440,000 in its first year if passed.
For the first time since the request came before voters, a citizens committee is trying to get the millage passed. The group, Friends of the Fire Station, is led by the previous fire chief and Monroe resident Manuel Hoskins.
“We have been trying to get the word out about the need for a new station,” Mr. Hoskins said. “We’ve heard people say they don’t want their kids to be in debt, but the fire station is going to have to be built.”
Mr. Hoskins served as chief for 2½ years. He says he understands the need for the new station and, as a taxpayer, he understands residents’ concerns, too.
“People who drive by think it looks good, that it is fine the way it is,” he said. “And it does look fine from the outside, but you have to come in and see the issues.”
City voters turned down a similar request in August 1,197-1,309.
The Central Fire Station, 75 Scott St., was built in 1966. Officials said the structure has had its problems since shortly after it was built, including issues with the roof.
Now, firefighters are no longer able to use their sleeping quarters because of mold problems. Instead, they are sleeping in a common room that has been converted.