An estimated 250 people enjoyed a community picnic sponsored by the Rugby Fire Department on September 12.

The picnic had a two-fold purpose. One was to bring the community together to enjoy a picnic with their neighbors and the other was to provide information about the proposed new fire hall and to show residents of Rugby where the firefighters hope to locate it.

A sketch of the proposed new facility was on display at the park. The area where the new facility would go, if that location is approved by the City Council, is approximately 75 feet from the playground and the plan is to put a fence between the proposed hall and the playground, according to firefighter Kevin Schepp. The present basketball court would be re-located to another spot in the park with this plan.

“We accomplished what we wanted to which was clarification,” said Jayme Berube, firefighter.

Many people asked questions and gave their opinions to firefighters. A lot of misconceptions were out there and the firefighters said they had a chance to correct those for the public.

Residents who came to the picnic had an opportunity to share their opinion through a ballot. The ballots were turned over to the city council to review.

“We really appreciate the attendance and the opinions on both sides of the issue from the public,” said Dave Schneibel, Jr. “Our plan is to share the information with the city council.”

Rugby Mayor Dave Cichos and council members were at the picnic as well.

“They had a nice turnout,” said Cichos. “I think the boys did a good job of circulating and answering questions.”

Cichos visited with several people at the picnic.”Some were against, and some were for the location as we expected,” he said, an added that two other locations were displayed as well.

One of them was a city-owned lot across from M.J. McGuires along N.D. Highway 3 and the old tennis courts across from Farmers Union Oil Company’s north location.

The fire department members have researched locations keeping in mind quick response time, traffic flow, and safety. They said they believe a location on N.D. 3 is the best option.

“Our understanding of it is the city will make their decision at the October 4 meeting,” said Schneibel.