RUMFORD – Selectmen gave the go-ahead Thursday night for the Fire Department to begin a series of public informational meetings for a proposed new fire station.

A Fire Station Task Force has been studying the needs of a modern fire department for about two years. A fire department consultant recommended that the 1925 brick structure on Congress Street be replaced.

The proposed new building is tentatively planned for construction on a MeadWestvaco parcel located on the banks of the Androscoggin River off Rumford Avenue at an estimated cost of about $2.5 million. The town is currently negotiating with the paper company for possible purchase of the land.

Chief John Woulfe III said the informational meetings are meant to show the need for a new station, particularly as it relates to new standards and requirements for fire services by the federal and state governments.

The $2.5 million estimate is just that, he said. It will be a number to work with as plans go forward. Townspeople will have the ultimate say on whether a new fire station will be built.

Town Manager Robert Welch said figures worked out show that financing most of the estimated funding for a new structure over a 15-year period would come in at about $218 per household valued at $50,000. He stressed, however, that these figures could change depending upon the town’s valuation.

Selectman Jolene Lovejoy said some of the funding could also come from grants.

Although the ornate brick structure is solidly built and in excellent condition, Woulfe and consultants have said that it lacks the space for modern, larger equipment, and space for training firefighters. Also, firetrucks have difficulty negotiating Congress Street. When the brick fire station was built, firefighting apparatus was drawn by horses.

The first informational meeting will be set in July, Woulfe said. At least one or two additional sessions will also be held before a special town meeting is called for action by residents.

Also on Thursday, the board approved several hawker’s and peddler’s, liquor, amusement, victualer’s and innholder’s licenses.

Lovejoy was appointed warden for the June 10 election. Selectman Eugene Boivin will serve as deputy warden.

Following the public portion of the meeting, the board, town lawyer Jennifer Kreckel, Welch and highway superintendent Andy Russell entered into a closed session to discuss highway department union negotiations.

eadams@sunjournal.com

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