Webster to build new fire station

Webster's City Council has approved the construction of a new $4.89 million fire station.
The 18,000-square foot fire station will replace the city's aging 3,500-square foot Fire Station No. 1 at 17100 Texas Avenue, which was built in 1974 and only has 3.5 single bays. It is not windstorm rated and had to be evacuated during Hurricane Ike. Its sleeping quarters are crowded, and newer fire equipment cannot fit in its bays.
The new station is to have 5 to 6 bays that can hold newer fire equipment, be able to withstand hurricane winds, and be energy efficient. It could be built on property that the city already owns south of City Hall, 101 Pennsylvania or on the site of the existing Fire Station No. 1.
The city will get a $400,000 federal grant to help pay for the station, but a bond issue will be needed as well. Certificates of obligation do not require voter approval.