Mayor discusses challenges of $44M police station project in downtown planning

The Lebanon City Council meeting on February 24, 2025, focused on the progress and challenges surrounding the construction of a new police station. Mayor discussed the city's priorities since he took office, highlighting completed projects such as the street department garage and the ongoing construction of Fire Station 2. However, the police station project has faced delays primarily due to its estimated cost of $44 million, which the Mayor described as "challenging."

The Mayor noted that while a space study has been completed, providing various site options, the high cost has hindered progress. He emphasized the importance of situating the police station in the downtown area for visibility and accessibility, suggesting that a park might be a more suitable use for the property on Lafayette Avenue.

The discussion also touched on the possibility of a multi-story police station to optimize space, but the Mayor reiterated that the overall financial implications remain a significant concern. The council is now faced with the decision of whether to move forward with the project before finalizing a site, as the cost of land is relatively minor compared to the total project expense.

As the city navigates these challenges, the future of the police station remains uncertain, with council members needing to weigh the benefits of the project against its substantial financial requirements.