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WEIRTON -- Some restoration efforts may be coming to one of the city's fire stations, although when is still a question.
A resolution was presented to the Weirton Finance Committee, Thursday, for its consideration, proposing the allocation of $150,000 in American Rescue Plan Act funds "to begin the reconditioning of the former County Road Fire Station." The resolution is sponsored by Ward 1 Councilman Tim Connell.
The proposal received no recommendation from the committee Thursday, but will go before the full city council during its meeting Monday night.
"I agree it's something needed. I just don't know if it's the right time," Ward 6 Councilman Enzo Fracasso said.
Finance Director Diana Smoljanovich explained, while the city still has a little more than $2 million of its ARPA allotment, those funds have been set aside, for now, as officials await estimates for proposed renovations to the Weirton Municipal Building.
Last September, the city contracted with the Thrasher Group to review the city building and develop a plan for renovations, with focuses to include more proficient use of space in the building, heating, ventilation and air conditioning, security and accessibility.
Ward 7 Councilman Terry Weigel also agreed the project will be needed at some point.
"This is definitely something worthy of being on our radar," he said, noting, though, council also has discussed focusing on various improvements for the city's recreational sites.
Proposed projects for Marland Heights Park alone, Weigel reminded, are estimated at between $1.5 million and $2 million.
Fire Chief Kevin Himmelrick, who explained he had been unaware of the proposal until contacted by City Clerk Kimberly Long, said renovations to the station will be needed at some point.
"It's going to need done if we're going to man the station," Himmelrick said.
Himmelrick previously had recommended additional staffing for the fire department, with firefighters assigned to County Road, in anticipation of economic development in the city's north end.
Himmelrick said one project which could be addressed is the need for air conditioning in the building, explaining the lack of such a system is why the station is no longer used as a polling site for local elections.
While there is no full-time staffing for the station, it is still used by the department.
"It is still used every day. That's our training center," he said.
The station also is used for storage of some vehicles, equipment and other materials.