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Chisago City Council weighs remodeling Lindstrom facility versus building a new police station
Summary
At a May 11 workshop the council reviewed options to remodel the existing Lindstrom facility, build a shared or standalone Chisago City police facility, or contract with the county; councilors asked staff for comparative financial analyses and more community input.
Mayor Jeremy Dresel called a special Chisago City Council workshop to order on May 11, where councilors examined options for the city’s police services and facility needs.
The council discussed three primary paths: accept a proposal to upgrade the current Lindstrom facility, construct a shared or standalone police facility in Chisago City, or pursue a contract with the county for police services. Council members raised concerns about the current building’s condition, its location, and whether it could meet long-term operational needs.
City Administrator John Pechman summarized the fiscal considerations the council must weigh, including facility costs and the operational implications of establishing an independent Chisago City police department. Council members flagged cost-sharing arrangements and staffing thresholds in the existing Lakes Area Police Department contract and asked for clarity on procedures for withdrawal or dissolution of that agreement.
Councilors said they expected additional community input before any final decision. The council directed staff to continue negotiations with Lindstrom where applicable and to prepare comparative financial analyses that show the costs and operational trade-offs of remodeling the current facility versus building a new facility or contracting with the county.
The council took no formal vote at the workshop. Staff will return with cost estimates, contract clarifications, and a summary of community feedback to inform future action.
