City Council approves $95K bid for community center renovations amid police department relocation

The Newport City Council made significant strides in addressing the ongoing challenges faced by the local police department during its April 2025 meeting. A key highlight was the council's approval to purchase property for a new police department facility, a move that officials believe will provide a long-term solution to the department's current temporary housing situation.

City leaders expressed their frustration with the temporary arrangements necessitated by recent flooding, which forced the police department to relocate to the community center. "We weren't going to come in here and ask you for this kind of money just to build something to tie it back down in a couple of years," one council member stated, emphasizing the need for a permanent solution. The new site, which is not located in a flood plain, is expected to alleviate the operational challenges the department has faced since the flood.

The council also discussed the timeline for construction, with estimates suggesting that the new facility could take up to two years to complete. In the meantime, the police department will continue to operate from the community center, which has required careful planning and coordination to ensure that both the police and community services can function effectively during the transition.

In addition to the police department discussions, the meeting featured a presentation from a representative of the U.S. Small Business Administration, who outlined available disaster recovery loans for residents and businesses affected by the recent flooding. The council acknowledged the importance of spreading awareness about these resources, as many community members remain unaware of the assistance available to them.

As the meeting concluded, council members commended the city staff for their resilience and adaptability in the face of extraordinary circumstances. The council's commitment to addressing the needs of the police department and the community at large reflects a proactive approach to recovery and future preparedness.