By Betsy Finklea
Upon a request from Councilman Aron Gandy, the Dillon County Council voted to give permission to pursue land for and start construction for the Bingham Fire Department.
Gandy asked that left over capital sales tax money be used. He said three other stations have already been built.
Chairman Archie Scott asked to refer it to the building committee. Gandy then put it in the form of a motion, seconded by Councilman Bobby Moody. Gandy said Bingham was the only unprotected area without fire service. Scott asked what the cost would be to build it.
County Administrator Clay Young said approximately $200,000-230,000. Scott said he didn’t see the population there to warrant it. Councilman Harold Moody said he didn’t think Gandy intended this to be a full service fire station. Gandy said it would have two bays, an equipment room, a storage room, and a community room. He said in the future that he hoped there would be a 24-hour fireman, but that was putting the horse before the saddle.
All councilmen present voted in favor of the motion except for Scott, who voted against it.
Attorney Ken Dubose told council that they would have to vote to spend the money. H. Moody said he thought the building committee would have a say in the type of building, etc.