The proposal places the facility on Tamarack Hollow on a currently vacant lot. It would look just like any other home with the exception of a logo on the garage door indicating Rescue Squad and the door itself being taller but built in such a way to appear as a ten foot door. Their hope would be to simply sell it as a home if they at some time need to move to a larger facility. The lot is desirable due to it's proximity to the west gate for calls outside of Candlewick and they feel the east side of Candlewick is well served by the Poplar Grove station. Originally the plan was to build near maintenance but there is a problem with no sewer and water run to the building spot plus it would necessitate building an access road. Many properties were considered and Tamarack Hollow was selected as the best for their use.
It would be constantly manned with one rescue unit and two staff. Sirens would only be used in the case of danger to people or vehicles on the roads. Lights will be as needed.
Adjacent property owners were concerned about this affecting their property values, danger to children, and the possibility of the old gate being opened on their street. (It will not be re-opened)
Some felt this is not needed here with other facilities being close. Others questioned snow plowing for them to get out and if it will really be manned. A couple questioned the legality of locating it in our residential area.
All questions were addressed to the satisfaction of some but of course not to others. That is the case with a lot of issues.
There will be a special board meeting August 5th at 7 p.m. to take the vote on this issue as well as on some road work. It would be good to attend. The Rec Center will be the location.
I have always been up front with you so here is my take on the issue. I wouldn't mind a bit if it was built next to our home. It will be well maintained and only used for one to two calls per day. They assured us lights and sirens will be used only as necessary for safety. The vehicle itself will be in a garage and only two cars will be on location and they will be off-street. They will be paying dues, water and sewer, and other expenses just like the rest of us. I can think of a lot of homes that are not maintained as they should be and those would affect my property value, not this building. I want whatever it takes to assure the fastest service for our residents. This to me is a life and safety issue.
Ken