Menlo Park: Contract awarded for new fire station

So, rebuilding an old fire station that's too small and probably not seismically ready makes sense.

However, the museum seems excessive. The taxpayers in the fire district are paying for fire protection, not a museum. Let's chop the museum entirely, and return the cash to the taxpayers.

Stations need to be rebuilt and upgraded. As our community changes so does the need for the FD's response and equipment.

Also, I think a museum is beneficial. Lots of people drop by the fire station; groups -- Boy Scouts, schools, civic organizations and more -- schedule tours to see fire engines and truck, both new and old. I'm sure one of the most regular question is where is the dalmatian?

I'm fine with the museum.

We may need to hire a consultant...to study this...for at least a year...before we take action...at the cost of at least $500-600k.

In a community that relies on private donations to a foundation to ensure reasonable class sizes in our school, squandering tax dollars on a 'fire museum' is a travesty.

I am fine wth spending what we need to spend to ensure public safety. I am not fine with spending tax dollars in a completely unnecessary museum. I'm sure the boy scouts can check out the fire engine without a dedicated museum. If you really want a fire museum, it should be funded by private donations from people who care, not all of the taxpayers in the district.