Members of the Evangeline Parish Fire Protection District #2 Board received a rough estimate to build a new station on U.S. Hwy. 167, just north of Ville Platte Concrete.
Todd Deville, representing Landreneau and Associates, told the Board that the project would cost around $950,000. The Board indicated that it wasn’t ready to start the project. It just wanted an idea of how much the project would cost so that it can better plan for beginning the project.
The Fire District Board purchased the land a few years ago with the intention to build a new station to service the west side of the district. Although it might initially house two fire units, the new station would include four bays, which would mean that it could accommodate future growth.
In other business, Fire Chief Chris Harrison said that the assessment for the fire rating was completed, and that he expects the grade back in 60-90 days. Currently, Fire District #2 has a rating of Class 5.
The fire ratings are done every five years by the Property Insurance Association of Louisiana. Fire Departments are graded from Class 1 (the best rating) to Class 10 (the worst).
The ratings are based on factors such as water supply, staffing, equipment, tools, and communication.
Fire ratings affect property insurance premiums. Districts with better fire ratings typically see lower property insurance rates.
In other business, the Board approved changing the oil and transfer case pumps in the older units; and the engine oil in all the units. It also approved increases in workman’s comp costs.
Harrison informed the Board that the new recruit, Zackery Johnson, had graduated the fire academy and was already on the work schedule.
Image
By: NICHOLAS JAGNEAUX Staff reporter