A Colorado town has broken ground on a new police station despite years of resident pushback over its price tag.
The $16.6 million project is moving forward after four unsuccessful votes on financing. The decision has raised concerns among residents about who will cover the cost.
Here's what to know
Mead, a community in Weld County, Colo. with a population below 8,000, is moving forward with a new police facility despite four rejected funding votes since 2018, according to Denver7.
City officials and police leaders say they need the new building to prepare for future growth. The department employs 17 sworn officers and three civilian staff members.
Certificates of Participation, known as COPs, will fund construction without the town putting another tax measure before voters, Denver7 reported.
Work at the fenced-off site is on hold, although a roadside sign identifies it as the future home of the police department.
TCD Picks » Quince Spotlight
💡These best-sellers from Quince deliver affordable, sustainable luxury for all
More background
Don Smith, who has lived in Mead for 11 years, told Denver7 he was caught off guard by the decision.
Smith's concern centers on who would repay the debt: existing taxpayers could bear the cost if the expected growth doesn't materialize.
Some residents say cheaper alternatives exist. They are also asking how the town will pay for the facility.
What's being done?
Mead Police Chief Brent Newbanks defended the design, which would accommodate up to 40 officers.
According to Newbanks, projects the town has already approved could eventually push the population above 20,000, roughly triple its current size, Denver7 reported.
He described Mead's requirements as distinct, even as other jurisdictions consider comparable facilities and the basic needs of policing.
"Every jurisdiction is different. So Mead has its own intricacies that make us special, and you know, different from other areas, but they're all looking at very similar types of facilities and the basic needs of police. And this facility would support this community for decades, and that's intentional," Newbanks said.
"It is going to debt when you pull out a $22 million loan that's going into debt, and you're putting it on the backs on future growth. If we don't grow, then you're putting it on the backs of the current people, maybe going bankrupt," Smith said.
Where can I learn more?
The dispute in Mead centers on the cost of a new police station and residents' say in paying for it.
• Arizona residents are appealing a law restricting voters' say over Axon's headquarters.
• In Golden, Colo., council members questioned Flock cameras' ethics and may cancel a $27,500 deal.
• Palm Beach County's sheriff spent $6.3 million in taxes on retirement plans for 41 executives.
• Colorado police found a fake receipt machine and discarded receipts in suspected shoplifters' car.
• In Utah, police left an anti-data-center activist concussed after planners barred public comment.
Get TCD's free newsletters for easy tips, smart advice, and a chance to earn $5,000 toward home upgrades. To see more stories like this one, change your Google preferences here.
