Previously discussed as part of a capital improvement request back in June, the Derby City Council ultimately approved a budget item for a new training facility for Derby Fire and Rescue when it passed its 2022 budget earlier this year.
The exact location remained in question, but that was cleared up recently, as the city council approved a purchase of land for the training facility at 801 N. Buckner (west of El Paso Animal Hospital) – the department’s preferred site – at its Nov. 9 meeting.
Cost for the land purchase totaled $111,600.72 ($0.70/square foot) for the vacant 3.66-acre property, with both land and construction costs budgeted through the Derby Difference Fund. Additionally, Deputy City Manager Kiel Mangus reported the Mulvane Fire Department has pledged to contribute $30,000 toward the training facility.