Makes most sense to update existing site

Regarding the May 21 article, “Getchell farmhouse stands in the way of progress”:

If anything, this article might have demonstrated some reasoning impairment by the “officials” of the Getchell Fire Department.

Wouldn’t it be simpler to rehabilitate and add on to the existing firehouse? I’m sure that would be less costly to all the taxpayers involved with the project.

A few years ago, the Saratoga Fire Department in Saratoga, Calif., had a similar situation, where the older firehouse needed upgrading or replacement. Voters approved a construction bond. Fire crews parked the engines outside while construction crews dismantled the original building. With tents, it was just like camping. It took several months, but now there is a new, bigger firehouse, with all the latest hooo haaas, bells and whistles — on the exact same site of the old firehouse.

There is no reason why something similar cannot happen with the Getchell firehouse situation. The present firehouse and lot are big enough to accommodate a larger firehouse.

Is it time to remind Chief Hots that a big part of his job responsibilities include fiscal responsibility?

Taking this matter to an eminent domain hearing is just a waste of time, and money, considering the better alternative — fix up what you already have, and make do with it. There is no reason to build anything across the street.

Gary Clark