During a recent town council meeting, community members expressed strong opinions regarding the proposed location for a new police station, highlighting concerns about transparency and the need for alternative solutions. Angela Townsend, a former council member, emphasized the importance of forming a committee to explore other options for the police station's site, particularly in light of public feedback against the current proposed location on the west side of Route 113. Townsend pointed out that the town owns several parcels of land, including a 50-acre site where a soccer field is located, which she believes could be better utilized for community needs.
Townsend also raised questions about the town's public works department and its use of existing properties, suggesting that the current facilities could be optimized rather than expanding into new areas. She expressed disappointment that a committee had not yet been formed to investigate these alternatives, despite the community's desire for a more suitable location for the police station.
In contrast, John Peterson, another resident, voiced his support for the current site, arguing that the council had already invested significant resources into planning and that further delays would only prolong the challenges faced by the police department. He criticized former council members for complicating the process at the last minute and urged the council to proceed with the existing plans.
Judd Malone, another attendee, reinforced the idea that the council had followed a proper process in selecting the site, noting the importance of situating the police station where population growth and traffic demands are expected to increase. He argued that further exploration of alternative sites would waste time and resources, undermining the progress already made.
The discussions highlighted a divide within the community regarding the future of the police station, with some advocating for a thorough review of options while others pushed for immediate action based on existing plans. The council's next steps remain uncertain as they navigate these differing perspectives.