Tuesday, May 04, 1999
With cost estimates in, Middletown sirens no sure thing
BY JANET C. WETZEL
The Cincinnati Enquirer
MIDDLETOWN — Getting cost estimates on tornado warning sirens for the city was easy. A decision by commissioners on whether to buy them may be difficult.
“It looks like they're split right down the middle on this,” said City Manager Ron Olson. He was referring to the discussion at the April 20 meeting when only six of seven commissioners were present. “I have no expectation of when they will make a decision.”
During a work session at 5 p.m. today, commissioners will hear a report from Police Chief Bill Becker outlining estimated costs for sirens.
Nine electronic sirens with voice commands from a Fort Worth, Texas, company would cost $230,908, plus $2,000 to $4,000 for installation. A Columbus company quoted prices of $78,480 for eight basic, no-frills models, and $147,535 for a high-end system with voice and two-way radios. That does not include an estimated 15 percent for installation and shipping. One estimate for basic sirens in just five city parks would be about $49,050.
Both Chief Becker and Fire Chief John Sauter have recom mended sirens.
At the last meeting, some commissioners, including Robert “Sonny” Hill, argued passionately for the sirens. Others, including Paul Nenni, said they are not the answer because they often are not heard by people indoors, and the money for sirens might be better spent on other city needs. They argue that residents should buy weather radios.
On Monday, Mr. Hill stood firm on his decision.
“I think if we save just one life, they're worth the money we'll spend,” Mr. Hill said. “Middletown is much smaller than places like Cincinnati, and if you have 10-12 sirens going off, most people are going to hear them. Some will hear and call family and friends. I think they will do a lot of good.”
City Commission Chairman Earl Smith said he's optimistic his colleagues will reach a compromise today.
“My inclination is, let's put in about five of them to warn people who are in the parks and people who work outdoors. That's thousands of people,” Mr. Smith said.
Commissioners also will consider approving a contract for up to $57,000 with Fluor Daniel Consulting, Atlanta, to do a study of the Interstate 75 and Ohio 122 interchange for potential development.
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