By an overwhelming vote of 105 to 32, voters in the Slingerlands Fire District approved the borrowing of up to $1.8 million for expansion of the department’s headquarters.
District officials have proposed a number of improvements to the department’s building on New Scotland Road, including the installation of a ventilation system to rid equipment bays of noxious diesel fumes.
The department is also planning to extend bays for fire trucks, add room for storage and add a “ready room” for firefighters from other companies if they are needed for a call within the fire district.
The building, which was opened in 1966, needs plenty of work, as stained walls are visible from a badly leaking roof.
Because of the approval, the average homeowner in Bethlehem within the district will see a tax increase of $78.44, while the average New Scotland homeowner covered by Slingerlands Fire will pay $48.94 more.
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