Why does LWFR need 5.5 more acres?

In reference to the Letter to the Editor by Linda Hiteshew published in the May 30 issue of the Echo, we need to respond to some assertions made in that letter:
We have no objection to LWFR replacing the existing Plain fire station buildings with a new, modern facility on their existing property. We think the current 2.5 acre plot is enough, but we are willing to consider a modest increase in that lot size if it can be shown that it is needed. We presented an example design that fits in an approximate 2.5 acre site to LWFR leadership last December. This design, including floorplans, can be seen on our - friendsofruralplain.us/about - website page. It includes a 10-bay fire apparatus garage, meeting/training rooms, sleeping quarters, food preparation facilities, six private offices, a communications center, equipment storage areas and even a gym. This seems to cover most of what Chief Lamar listed in his recent statement. If all this fits in the existing space, what is the additional 5.5 acres for?
The “misinformation” concerning a “jail” came from LWFR leadership in a meeting we had with them last December. They surprised us when they said that the proposed office for the sheriff “would probably include a holding cell or two”. Maybe a holding cell is not a jail, but the idea is the same to most people. In his statement last week, Chief Lamar wrote that “LWFR has not expressed a desire to build a jail…”. This is a different position and we will take him at his word. You will hear no more about this from us.
We respect and value the professionalism and dedication of LWFR in protecting all of us. Our only issue with them is to understand what it is that LWFR wants the 5.5 acres for. If it is for open space and playfields, great. If it is for one or two small buildings in well-maintained, landscaped surroundings which blend with the rural nature of the Hill Street neighborhood, great. So far, LWFR has not clearly committed to this. If the space is for a large parking lot or warehouse, or fire truck maintenance buildings, we would be concerned.
There are more than “less than a dozen” people who are expressing concern. Many have signed the petition on our web site,. www.friendsofruralplain.us

Don Bottoms
Friends of Rural Plain