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4. APPROACH SITE SELECTION After developing a comprehensive understanding of the City's needs from the Fire Department Analysis Study, staff interviews, and additional research, the design team will analyze potential sites identified for the Fire House. We will compare each site based on an extensive list of criteria to determine viable sites and then assist in scoring sites for the best balance of features and cost. Site selection criteria will include the following: • Comprehensive Plan Guide Designation • Property Zoning Designation • Adjacent Land Uses • Gross Site Area • Buildable Site Area • Property Cost (purchase price, comparative cost to prepare for use) • Wetlands • Flood Zone (if relevant) • Tree Coverage • Stormwater Management (regional ponding, provide on site, etc) • Street Access - Safety • Response Time Analysis - mapping response times based on NFPA categories • Easements - Existing or future • Utility Availability (Gas, Water, Electricity, Sanitary Sewer, Telephone/Data, Cable) • Topography • Soil Type Suitability • Property Setbacks • Site Visibility • Noise Issues • Environmental Contamination • Sun / Wind Orientation CNH Architects will conclude this step with a site comparison analysis for City staff and the City Council to use in making the final site selection and acquisition. The analysis will include conceptual site layout plans, traffic engineer response time mapping, and ratings of all identified criteria including relevant fire industry standards which include NFPA and ISO related guidelines. The design team will be available to present the findings and answer questions at staff and Council meetings when appropriate. During the site selection phase there are several areas of risk that could potentially impact the timeline or value of the selected site. Specifically, these include selecting sites that are privately held, which may require a longer acquisition time. This is particularly of concern if access to soil information or property contours is not available. This risk can be mitigated by the city's use of "quick take" proceedings if necessary. In addition, neighboring soil information from past development can be used as basis for estimating the site conditions, and site grades can be estimated from GIS data. This preliminary information can provide valuable insights and then be updated as soon as precise data is available. PROGRAMMING AND SCHEMATIC DESIGN CNH Architects will start with in-depth planning sessions with City staff and officials, discussing the goals and spaces required by the City. A full understanding will be developed of the Lino Lakes Fire Department's specific approach, operation style, project goals and future growth. This analysis will take into consideration future expansion flexibility, efficiency of space use, and current conditions. Examples of many stations, both large and small, will be reviewed, facilities toured, and national trends will be discussed to assist the building committee in selecting the LINO LAKES FIRE HOUSE #2 11