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Staff outlines police‑space plan, potential property purchases near fire station and town‑hall updates
Summary
Town staff updated the commission on a low‑cost layout change to create temporary police department workspace, described pursuing appraisals on nearby vacant lots next to the fire station (including parcels adjacent to 739 Pearl), and said a longer program of town‑hall renovations and property assembly is under consideration.
Town staff told the Redevelopment Commission that they continue evaluating options to provide more usable space for the police department and to support fire‑station operations through targeted property acquisitions.
Manager Carmen said staff explored options with the police leadership and produced CAD sketches for a non‑structural partition that would create more office/interview space without a full renovation. She said the change would be modest in square footage and staff will return with cost estimates before requesting funding.
Carmen also said the town has been in contact with owners of nearby vacant lots, including parcels adjacent to 739 Pearl Street, and would seek appraisals to determine whether purchase is feasible. She noted the town previously bought 739 Pearl after the tornado to support fire‑department needs and said acquiring adjacent parcels could allow better access, potential resale after improvements, or space for a future government center.
Separately, staff gave an update on longer‑range capital needs (roads, roundabout and parks) and said community crossings grant opportunities are being pursued for road projects. Commissioners asked staff to prioritize projects that both address safety and can be sustained operationally.
Next steps: staff will obtain cost estimates for the interim police layout, order appraisals for parcels of interest and report back with options and cost‑benefit information.
