Show All Answers

1. Why do we need a new police station?

The existing facility exhibits a range of deficiencies that impede its functionality and safety. Notably, it fails to meet Americans with Disabilities Act requirements, lacks a sprinkler system, and cannot simultaneously accommodate interviews with multiple victims or suspects. The absence of proper segregation between criminal and non-criminal spaces, insufficient sight and sound separation for different detainee groups, and the lack of accessible restrooms pose serious limitations.

Moreover, the infrastructure is inadequate, outdated, and faulty. The building's design does not align with modern technological needs, and there are concerns related to electrical overloads and inadequate temperature control for IT equipment. The heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system's inefficiency leads to temperature imbalances across the facility. Numerous deficiencies are noted in the fire alarm system, and some operational aspects, like detainee transportation and plumbing, present ongoing challenges.

Severe overcrowding compounds these issues. Essential units, such as the Investigations Unit, operate from an outdated trailer, leading to storage challenges and the repurposing of detainee cells for record storage. Evidence storage inadequacies, constrained locker space, and the lack of proper office arrangements further hinder efficient operations. Additionally, efforts to secure federal grant funding for agency improvement are hampered by the building's limitations, impeding workspace and storage solutions required for new personnel, equipment, and documentation.

Specialty units’ resort to sheds for equipment storage, while multi-functional rooms, like the roll call/briefing space, struggle to accommodate the needs of a growing employee count. Dispatch capabilities fall short, with an insufficient setup for potential simultaneous dispatchers. The facility's shortcomings extend to areas such as School Resource Officer workspaces, on-site Animal Control Services, and personnel record storage. In sum, these deficiencies collectively hinder the agency's operational effectiveness, safety, and potential for community service enhancement.

2. Where will it be built?

Location

The new facility will be built on the site of the current police station at 9 Veterans Memorial Parkway.

Other Sites Considered

The Municipal Building Advisory Committee did look at other sites including a location off of Stiles Road and Abanki Park at 71 Geremonty Drive. 

3. Is the existing site the best location for a new Station?

Yes.  The Municipal Building Advisory Committee (MBAC), the Police Department staff, and the Town Council are unanimous in their belief the present site is the most optimal for the new facility. This consensus is driven by several compelling factors: first, there is no expenditure involved in acquiring land from the taxpayers; second, the location boasts a strategically central position; and finally, there exists ample space for the construction of the facility.

4. What will happen to the existing station is a new one is built?

During the construction of the new facility, the current station will not be operational. To ensure continued service, staff will be temporarily relocated. The process will involve demolishing the existing station before constructing the new facility in its place.

5. How would the Town pay for the facility?

The Town would need to finance the majority of the cost of the facility through bonds paid through taxes. Additionally, Public Safety Impact Fees will be allocated toward the bond principal.

Bonds may be issued in phases. Savings in construction costs or contributions from grants or donors would be used to reduce the amount the Town had to bond or repay the bonds early.

6. Is grant money available?

At this time, there are no grants or Federal funding for brick and mortar projects, however there are grant opportunities available for certain aspects of the project, such as technology, communication, and energy saving projects. To take advantage of grant money, the full project must be funded and ready for construction.  Staff is prepared to research and apply for grants once the project is funded and ready to be built. Any contributions or grants the Town secured would be used to reduce the cost of the bond amount or used to pay off the bonds early.

7. The proposed facility includes a Firing Range for the Police Department. Why doesn’t the Police Department continue to use other training facilities in the state?

The proposed police range would be approximately 3,100 square feet, depending on design options. This building is a small portion of the projected cost for the whole facility. The proposed range will address the Police Department’s current training needs and support long-term training goals. The on-site range building would allow officers to move from the classroom immediately to training exercises where critical thinking and decision-making skills are honed under stressful conditions in a controlled environment. An on-site range reduces problems related to travel costs to other facilities, lack of availability at other facilities, and lack of integration into a regular training regimen.   The construction of the range will provide an adequate training facility for several decades.

8. Can I see the existing conditions for myself?

The Police Department is happy to schedule a tour for residents. Residents may call the station at (603) 893-1911 to arrange a tour. 

The Town also has a video that shows the condition of the station posted on the Town website.