| GOLDENS BRIDGE, N.Y. -- Voters on Tuesday approved a referendum authorizing the Golden's Bridge Fire District to borrow up to $2.7 million for repairs on its firehouse, which was severely damaged in a February 2014 blaze.
The margin of approval was by 100 to 79, the district noted. Voting took place from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Increase Miller Elementary School, according to the district.
The bond will not require further increases in taxes, the district noted; an insurance settlement, reached in February, will also help with the renovation cost. As a result of the settlement, the district added that funds leftover from operating budgets over the past two years can be used for bond payments.
"We thank residents for taking the time to attend our community information meetings, asking questions, staying informed and participating in this important vote," Golden's Bridge Board of Fire Commissioners Chairman Edward Brancati said in a statement. "The volunteer firefighters of the Golden’s Bridge Fire Department are always there for residents in their time of need - whether a fire, medical, storm-related or other emergency. Tuesday night, the community responded to the needs of the fire department and fire district – and we wholeheartedly thank them for their support and confidence in our leadership during these very difficult and unprecedented circumstances.”
In addition to restoring the firehouse, Brancati noted that upgrades will bring it into compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, along with state building and fire codes.
The fire district noted that, from the $2.7 million approval, it will only borrow for what is actually needed.
Demolition and pre-construction activity at the damaged firehouse, which is located along Route 138, began last week, the district previously announced. Four contractors have already been selected for the renovation, according to the district.
The Golden's Bridge Fire District encompasses western Lewisboro, specifically in the Goldens Bridge hamlet (the fire district uses an apostrophe in its name, unlike the location). The district also services portions of Somers and North Salem. |
