Sylvania Township's fire station number one on Monroe Street has seen its glory days, but that was a long time ago. Thanks to a voter-approved levy back in 2008, a new building will take its place with a spruced-up sleeping area, kitchen and work out room for firefighters. The building budget is about $2 million, with construction starting over the next two months.
Township leaders received nine construction bids on Wednesday, with the lowest one coming in at $1.96 million. Trustee Kevin Haddad worries even the smallest estimate could bust the budget.
"It's taxpayer dollars, and I want to make sure taxpayers get the most for their money," says Haddad. "That includes no contingencies, no fees for architectural costs, no engineering costs so I'm still saying my estimate is over $2.2 million."
Haddad says if the building is over budget, leaders may have to dip into the general fund to pay the difference. He believes the fire station needs replacing, but wants to ensure taxpayer dollars are used in the best way.
"It's not my money. It's not an open checkbook where I can just say yes, let's go spend it who cares. I care because it's part of my tax dollars too."
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