Multi-Million Dollar Fire Station Opens

The city of Orlando officially opened its brand new 60,000 square foot fire station and department headquarters Wednesday.

However, many have questioned the need for some of its amenities, like 12 flat screen televisions, stainless steel appliances, granite light fixtures and a $1,300 mailbox.

Dyer defends the pricey multi-million dollar building. He says it costs more than the average fire station because it serves as the main headquarters and it's a green station.

”I think this is a quality station and we did what we need to support our fire personnel,” Mayor Buddy Dryer said.

But one of the green initiatives may not be working out. The city spent at least $128,000 on a new water system. It is designed to collect rain water and then that water is utilized for the toilets.

However the water seeps through the rooftop garden and then causes the water to become muddy. Officials say they've had to turn off that part of the system to work out the bugs.

“They are still working on tweaking the system to make sure it works as efficiently as possible,” Orlando Fire Chief Jim Reynolds said.

In the meantime, others aren't so sure about some of the expenses.

“It’s not necessary. It cost a lot of money and I think with the economy right now we don't need this,” resident Lina Giraldo said.

A spokesperson said the city has spent $17 million on the building so far and more invoices are still coming in.

The new facility will house more than 70 firefighters and will serve as headquarters for the entire department.