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Township votes for new facility

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YELLOW SPRINGS — Miami Township citizens voted in favor of constructing a new fire-rescue facility. Unofficially seventy three percent of the voters casted their ballots for the issue, while the remaining 26 percent voted against.

The additional bond issue is for 2.40 mills for 30 years. It commences in 2017, first due in 2018.

“We are thrilled,” Miami Township Fire-Rescue Chief Colin Altman said after learning of the results. “Even with a tax increase, the community supported us and realized the need and are happy with our outstanding service.”

Preliminary plans for the new facility indicate that the space will grow by approximately 11,000 square feet. It is intended to be approximately 18,000 square feet compared to the current facility’s 7,000 square feet. Altman said preparations, designs, engineering and new equipment will cost approximately $5.75 million, totally funded by the levy. The current facility is located at 225 Corry St., in the village; the new facility is planned to be located at Xenia Avenue between Herman and Marshall streets.

The current facility was designed and built before Miami Township Fire-Rescue employees were paid, but the new space will include sleeping facilities, in addition to modern training facilities, according to Altman. It will also be handicapped accessible, which he said will be an upgrade compared to the current facility. Talks of constructing a new fire and rescue facility for the township have been in the works for the past 15 years but became more serious within the last five. Altman said the biggest delay in the process was obtaining the land. Upon doing so, the department went forth with the steps it took to place the levy on the ballot.

“The township trustees have been very supportive and tonight we learned that the community is very supportive as well,” Altman said.

By Whitney Vickers

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Reach Whitney Vickers at 937-502-4532.