A regional police organization has made arrangements to lease a closed fire station in Rolling Meadows, bringing a new purpose to the building that had been vacant since 2018. The Northwest Central Dispatch System, an emergency dispatch agency, will be the new occupant of the building, a move that has been approved by the Rolling Meadows City Council.
The Northwest Central Dispatch System, which provides emergency dispatch services for 11 suburbs, will use the facility as a backup center. The 20-year lease includes a clause that allows the city to reclaim the property if it needs the station for fire services again. To make the building suitable for its new role, a substantial renovation worth nearly $4 million is in the works. This cost will be borne by the dispatch agency.
The fire station, known as Fire Station 16, was closed in 2018 due to budget constraints. Since then, the city has been exploring various options to repurpose the property. The decision to lease it to the Northwest Central Dispatch System comes as a welcome resolution. The lease will generate approximately $30,000 annually for the city, which will be a source of revenue for the city's budget.
Additionally, the renovation will not only provide a functional space for the dispatch agency, but it will also contribute to the aesthetic improvement of the area. Mayor Joe Gallo praised this development, stating it as a win-win for everyone involved. He expressed his delight at the prospect of the building being put to good use, aiding in emergency responses, and contributing to the city's finances.
The Northwest Central Dispatch System is known for its high performance, providing emergency dispatch services to a wide range of suburbs. The backup center at Fire Station 16 will further enhance their capacity to serve the community. The agreement between the city of Rolling Meadows and the dispatch agency symbolizes a significant step towards efficient utilization of public resources and an enhancement of public safety services.