From Deseret News archives:
SLC looking to build $32 million fleet-maintenance facility
$32M project would provide the space for repair work, storage
City officials are proposing to build a new fleet-maintenance facility at 1954 W. 500 South that would centralize city fleet operations and provide the space needed for repair work and on-site storage.
"Our fleet facility really is the backbone of the city's operations," Councilman Carlton Christensen said during a Tuesday City Council meeting. "It provides the needed repairs for our garbage trucks, our snowplows and other city vehicles."
City officials say the existing fleet facility site near 800 South and 300 West lacks the ability to expand to meet the city's growing maintenance needs. A council-funded audit in 2002 found several "deficiencies" in the existing site, including its lack of space and storage.
"Even after a considerable expenditure of money, we wouldn't be able to remedy all of those issues," Christensen said.
The proposal calls for the city to issue up to $32 million in sales-tax revenue bonds to pay for the new fleet-maintenance facility, which would include two buildings. If funding is secured, construction could begin by the end of this year and be completed by mid-2009.
Councilman JT Martin admitted that he's nervous about the financial commitment the city would be making, giving the shaky state of the economy.
"This is a big chunk of change, and the timing is not the best," Martin said. "I hope we get great public comment to see if the timing is right."
The council has set a public hearing on the proposed facility for Nov. 6, giving residents a chance to weigh in on the city's plans to finance the project through sales-tax revenue bonds.
The city already has purchased the land for the new facility, though its $3 million price tag would be included in the bonding.
According to a city staff report, the new facility would further the city's sustainability goals by allowing for a new compressed natural gas fueling station. The two buildings also would be constructed to the silver Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design standard, as per city ordinance.
In addition, the new facility would allow for redevelopment of the current fleet site, which is located in a city RDA zone.
"I think it gives us a great opportunity to change our city (near 800 South and 300 West)," Councilman Van Turner said.
E-mail: jpage@desnews.com
