Buckfield, Maine, officials have unveiled the town's controversial new $1 million fire-rescue station.
The Sun Journal reports that the open house Sunday almost brought town manager Cindy Dunn to tears.
Many people in town thought the facility was unnecessary and extravagant, its cost more than the town's annual budget.
But it opened after overcoming budgeting shortfalls, scheduling setbacks and contentious debate.
Fire Chief Tim Brooks says the new facility tore at two incompatible but equal sensibilities: saving taxpayer money while saving their lives.
The new facility replaced a 60-year building that was rundown and moldy.
The building will house the fire and rescue departments, with 23 and 18 paid, on-call members, respectively. During emergencies, it can act as a disaster relief center.
Controversial New Fire-Rescue Station Facing Backlash
Many people in town thought the facility was unnecessary and extravagant
Copyright AP - Associated Press
