In a recent Sandoval County Commission meeting, discussions centered around a proposed $25 million fire station project, raising eyebrows among commissioners and community members alike. The ambitious plan aims to establish a main fire station in Northern Sandoval County, complete with living quarters for firefighters, akin to the existing Station 21.

Mark Kotzenbuehler, the director of public works, explained that the hefty price tag is a preliminary estimate based on projected costs of around $1,000 per square foot. However, he emphasized that this figure could change following further programming and planning, with the possibility of the final cost being significantly lower. “It might not be $25 million; it might be only $8 million,” he noted, highlighting the uncertainty surrounding the project’s financials.

The discussion also touched on the funding for additional personnel, which is currently not included in the budget. The county is awaiting Medicaid and Medicare revenue that could support these positions, but until that funding materializes, the addition of staff remains uncertain.

As the meeting progressed, commissioners were presented with the Integrated Capital Improvement Plan (ICIP), which outlines a five-year total project cost of approximately $419.8 million across various categories. This plan serves as a roadmap for prioritizing projects within the county, allowing commissioners to rearrange and adjust project rankings as needed.

The meeting underscored the complexities of budgeting for large-scale projects in Sandoval County, as officials navigate the balance between ambitious infrastructure goals and fiscal responsibility. As discussions continue, the community remains watchful of how these plans will unfold in the coming years.