NCCAD Secures New Location For Station 2

The North Crawford County Ambulance District (NCCAD) Board of Directors announced January 4 the purchase of the former PuroClean building in Bourbon that will serve as the new home for Station 2. 

The purchase comes after months of operating out of the Bourbon Fire Department following the closure of the district’s previous garage on Old Springfield Road in mid-April due to black mold. 

Despite the temporary relocation, the Bourbon ambulance has remained in continuous operation. 

NCCAD Chief Jeremy Stetina in August emphasized the district’s commitment to maintaining a strong presence in Bourbon.

“We’re looking to establish our place again. We’re going to stay in Bourbon,” Stetina told the city council.

The purchase and planned renovations are largely attributed to the passage of Operation Lifesaver in November. Voters approved the proposition, which will create a $4 million bond issue. 

In April, NCCAD put the bond issue on the ballot and it failed to gain the necessary 57.1 percent approval needed — picking up 53 percent support.

When the board took it back to voters in November, it received 64 approval. 

Proposition Lifesaver levies a real estate tax levy increase of 14 cents. It is estimated at $2.22 per month for a home valued at $100,000.

The board’s decision to invest in a new facility addresses several issues with the former location, including structural deficiencies, airflow problems, and the presence of black mold. 

The previous building also lacked sufficient space and was partially situated on properties owned by others, including Ward 1 Alderwoman Margie Brine and Bourbon RV.

The NCCAD has been in the process of exploring various options before securing the new property, including rebuilding at the old site and considering other lots, such as one in the city’s industrial park. 

Logistical challenges, including the presence of a creek and insufficient space for safe ambulance maneuvering, made the old lot less viable.

NCCAD board member Mike Delashmit highlighted the need for a facility that meets modern standards, ensuring safety and efficiency for ambulance crews. 

“Our ambulance crew is headed to a different level than the past,” Delashmit told the council. “They are getting the best training they’ve ever received, and our board is committed to being here, but our crew are living in offices It is important to find a location that supports our mission.”