GOODING, Idaho (KMVT/KSVT) - The Gooding Fire Department is planning new changes to the department with your vote this upcoming election. The rural and city fire departments are two separate entities, but they operate as one so they wish to merge as a district. "This will help get more grant money in the future," said Jim Brockman, the rural fire commissioner. This will allow them to replace old equipment. "(One) truck is 40 years old. It doesn't have foam ability. (Another) truck is 30 years old. It needs to be replaced," said Brandon Covey, Gooding Fire Chief. The biggest change officials hope for is a levy increase to build a new fire station on a seven acre lot closer to the hospital. The current levy rate sits at .05 percent. With approval, the increase will rise to .15 percent. The nearly $2 million project would give the department much needed space that the current 80 year old building and location can't offer. The new station would also feature a large training room to accommodate their growing staff. A town hall meeting regarding the proposal will be held at the fire station on October 27th and November 3rd from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m to address any questions or concerns by the public.

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