Daviess County Fiscal Court on Thursday approved proceeding with hiring Lexington-based firm Brandstetter Carroll Inc. to develop architectural renderings and a preliminary design for a new “Public Safety Building” on KY 231. The proposed facility would house the county’s third paid fire department, the Sheriff’s patrol division, a backup 911 center, Emergency Management Agency (EMA) offices, and the Coroner’s office.
Fiscal Court unanimously voted on the matter during its regularly scheduled meeting at 5 p.m. at the Blandford Lecture Hall at Owensboro Community and Technical College.
Judge-Executive Charlie Castlen said the project has been in discussion since January 2023, when Daviess County Fire Chief Jerry Smith first proposed a budget for it. Castlen explained that the County needs “more than a thought” before approaching state-elected officials for potential funding.
“We’re simply voting tonight to move forward with hiring a firm to get some architectural renderings and pricing, which will help determine if this project is feasible,” Castlen said.
Brandstetter Carroll Inc. will begin work on design plans, cost assessments, and floor layouts, considering details such as electrical, communication, and security systems. Once those elements are finalized, Fiscal Court would use this information to approach legislators about potential funding sources and determine a path forward.
The planned site for the Public Safety Building is located on land the County already owns near the bypass on KY 231, next WKU-Owensboro. Sheriff Brad Youngman and Fire Chief Jerry Smith said the site is strategically positioned to improve emergency services’ response times.
Youngman emphasized the operational benefits, noting that deputies currently stationed downtown have to navigate city traffic before reaching the bypass. He also mentioned the number of parking spaces the patrol division currently occupies at the courthouse that could otherwise be used by the public.
“By operating out of a facility near the bypass, we’re looking at reduced response times and safer travel for our patrol units, particularly for emergencies,” Youngman said.
He said the project could also facilitate easier collaboration among agencies.
“Housing the Sheriff’s patrol division, EMA offices, and the Coroner’s office in one location will make it easier for us to coordinate in situations that involve multiple departments,” Youngman said.
In addition to improving response times, Smith said the new fire station would provide much-needed support for a growing county. He highlighted a 30% increase in call volume over the past five years and attributes that to residential growth in areas including Masonville, Deer Valley, and the KY 54 corridor.
“We’re seeing higher demand for emergency medical and fire services, and this new station would allow us to meet that need,” Smith said.
Although tonight’s vote will not finalize construction plans, officials are optimistic that the court will vote in favor of moving forward with Brandstetter Carroll Inc. to begin the initial design and feasibility study.
