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ALBANY, N.Y. -- A heated meeting to discuss the consolidation of two fire houses in Albany was held Tuesday night.

The West Albany Fire Department has decided to close one firehouse to save money. Station Number One on Osborne Road will close, leaving Station Number Two on Sand Creek Road open. The move will save at least $67,000 a year the station pays in rent.

Many were critical of the plan, saying it could affect response times and public safety. But supporters say that's not a concern and it will make the department more efficient.

"If we put everybody under one roof, our response times are better, we go out with full crews and everybody knows we're coming to one place. Now we don't have people to going to two different places," said Lawrence Morrell, Chairman of the Board of Fire Commissioners.

The stations were less than a mile apart from each other. The fire district itself covers less than two miles.

Station Number One will close for good December 31st.