Next Steps for Fire Station Construction Project

Following the approval of a $42.5 million bond in the November 5th referendum, the City is moving forward with the construction of two new fire stations: one in South Sanford (Headquarters) and one in Springvale (District). The City’s administration is working closely with WBRC Inc., the engineering firm to finalize designs, issue bids, and establish a timeline for construction.

On December 3, 2024, the City Council reviewed and authorized the pre-construction costs and the bonding plan for the full construction costs for both fire stations. This approval allows the project to move forward, with the City using its undesignated fund balance for pre-construction costs for the HQ Station, up to $880,000. These funds will be reimbursed once the bonds are issued. Ronni Champlin, Sanford’s Finance Director explained, “The use of the fund balance for pre-construction expenses will allow us to maintain flexibility as the project schedules evolve.”
Administration’s recommended financing plan involves a “two-step drawdown process” for construction funds. This approach allows the City to access the money in stages, which helps reduce immediate interest costs. It also ensures that any pre-construction costs covered by the fund balance will be reimbursed once the bonds are issued. Each fire station will follow this process separately, with a staggered borrowing schedule designed to keep a consistent annual debt service. This method will also help delay the full cost of payments until 2029, two years prior to the City’s previous debt obligations are fully paid off, minimizing tax impacts as much as possible.

Tentative Construction Timeline

• Headquarters Station (South Sanford):
  • Design Completion: December 2024 - October 2025
  • Permitting: April 2025 – October 2025
  • Bidding: October – November 2025
  • Construction: December 2025 to April 2026
• District Station (Springvale):
  • Design Completion: January – November 2026
  • Permitting: June – December 2026
  • Bidding: January – February 2027
  • Construction: March 2027 – June of 2028

With the City Council’s approval, the fire station project is on track to proceed as planned. City administration will continue to work closely with the engineering firm to ensure designs are finalized on budget and construction can begin on schedule. The new Headquarters and District Fire Stations will play a vital role in enhancing emergency services and supporting the growing needs of the community.