In a recent government meeting, officials discussed the pressing need for expanded facilities to accommodate the growing demands of the local police department and jail. The director of the agency highlighted that since moving into their current building in 2000, the number of full-time employees has increased from 152 to a projected 224 by 2025, leading to significant space constraints. The building, originally designed for fewer staff, now struggles to provide adequate room for operations, including interviewing victims and housing inmates separately.

The jail, which has seen a rise in its population, particularly among female inmates, is nearing capacity. Current facilities can only accommodate 18 female inmates under ideal conditions, and the cost of housing inmates off-site is approximately $45 per day. The director emphasized the importance of providing programs for inmates to improve their lives while incarcerated, which requires additional space that is currently lacking.

To address these issues, the agency commissioned Baker McMillan Architects to conduct a feasibility study aimed at exploring potential expansions within the existing footprint. The study will assess the needs for additional space, including multipurpose rooms, training facilities, and improved parking solutions, as the current lot is insufficient for the growing number of vehicles.

The architects reported that the existing facility spans about 67,000 square feet, but projections indicate a need for over 100,000 square feet to adequately support future growth. The study also considered the possibility of acquiring adjacent land for parking, which could save costs compared to building a parking structure.

The estimated cost for the proposed expansion is between $24 million and $25 million, with a square foot cost of approximately $330. Officials acknowledged the financial challenges ahead, including the need for potential bonding or grants to fund the project. The discussion underscored the urgency of addressing these facility limitations as the city continues to grow, both in population and geographic size.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to keep the community informed as plans develop, emphasizing the importance of strategic planning to ensure the agency can effectively serve the public in the future.