(BEAVER DAM) Beaver Dam’s fire station debate is moving from “what if” to “what would it cost.”
City leaders will soon review early design concepts that compare building one new fire station versus building two — a decision that could shape fire response in the city for decades.
Fire Chief Michael Wesle said the push comes after a detailed assessment found the current station, built in the late 1950s, cannot be brought up to modern standards. The report cited major issues with plumbing, electrical systems, flooding during heavy rain, and a layout that no longer fits how the department operates today.
“It simply can’t be brought into a condition that would be acceptable for a modern-day fire station,” Wesle said.
Over the summer, the city also completed a GIS study to analyze response times and future needs — something that had not been done in past discussions about fire facilities. That data showed potential benefits to a two-station model, with one station on the north side of the city and one on the south.
Beaver Dam’s growth has largely moved north over the years, but most fire calls still come from the southern two-thirds of the city. Wesle said that creates a tradeoff: moving a single station north could improve overall coverage but slow response times to areas with the highest call volume.
Right now, the city is focused on narrowing that choice. Over the next month or two, staff and consultants are expected to finalize basic concepts and cost estimates so the Common Council can compare the price, staffing needs, and long-term impact of one station versus two.
Wesle said council members have shown interest in the two-station option but want hard numbers before making any decisions.
No construction timeline has been set. Wesle said any groundbreaking is likely years away and will depend on city finances and long-term borrowing plans.
