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Wahoo leaders outline ‘Building Our Future’ plan to update police, city hall and civic space
Summary
City Administrator presented the city’s Building Our Future initiative, describing a proposed public‑safety facility, relocation of city offices, asbestos constraints in current City Hall and a planned public outreach rollout beginning Dec. 1.
The City Administrator told the Wahoo City Council on Nov. 25 that the administration is moving forward with a “Building Our Future” outreach and planning effort that would relocate the police department, reconfigure City Hall and evaluate the civic center for longer‑term options.
“This is why the police department needs a modern facility,” the City Administrator said, describing cramped, outdated office space and encapsulated asbestos tile that limits renovation options. He said staff are planning a temporary move into 608 North London (the former Insro building) in January and that the police would relocate to 215 West Third while options for a permanent civic facility are reviewed.
The presentation described several related operational challenges: expanded EMS and fire response needs (including added vehicles and a full‑time paramedic), limited space for equipment and staff, and public‑safety bond capacity. Jerry, who commented during the discussion, noted that the public‑safety bond could be structured to use up to a five‑cent levy, and council members urged staff to develop funding options and next steps.
The City Administrator also reviewed other near‑term items tied to facilities planning: coordinating IT set‑up for the temporary office, grant work on downtown revitalization, and public information on the Building Our Future website and flyers. He encouraged residents to visit the police department to see current conditions for themselves.
The council did not vote on a bond or a specific facility plan at the meeting; the discussion focused on outreach, logistics for the January move and next steps for funding analysis. Staff said outreach materials will be available beginning Dec. 1 and that additional council action will be requested as specific financing or design decisions are proposed.
