Sugar Grove police department expansion on hold

After nearly one and a half hours of discussion, the Sugar Grove village board tabled a resolution Tuesday that would have approved a $500,000 expansion and renovation of the police department facility.

The amount was not budgeted for the fiscal year 2008-09 and the village would have to tap into money set aside for capital improvements

Several board members expressed concerns that the changes would barely meet staffing needs and would soon be outdated. Board members also questioned if the project must be limited to a cost of $500,000.

The plans call for a 1,600-square-foot addition to the police department that would include a sally port or garage, and installation of lockers for men and women. The addition would also create more office space for sergeants and investigators, and relieve crowding that has up to three officers sharing a desk.

Police also do not have lockers. They must write reports in the lunch room, where conversations may be distracting, according to Police Chief Brad Sauer.

"It will be a big improvement," Sauer said of the expansion.

A key renovation to existing space includes the addition of a lobby and a glassed-in reception area that would enhance security.

The police facility is in the same building as the village hall. The village had hoped to begin planning a new multimillion dollar municipal center that would house the police department and the village administrative staff, and have a public board room. But those plans were shelved in November because of budget constraints amid a sagging economy and a severe housing and building downturn.

"We felt it was in the best interest to establish a budget of $500,000," Village Administrator Brent Eichelberger told the board. "These plans are not grandiose but they fit our needs."

"I realize we have an inadequate facility," said Village Trustee Mary Heineman. "But my concern is that this is a design to just get by."

"Going with just what we need now is insufficient planning," said Village Trustee Mari Johnson. "I think we'll be in this building at least another five years."

Village President Sean Michels questioned whether installation of locker rooms was the best use of space and expressed concern over making a decision too quickly.

The plans were not discussed previously by the board.

Staff will work with architects Cordogan, Clark and Associates to come up with plans for a larger expansion.