MINOT – The 2024 city budget was approved during Tuesday’s regular City Council meeting, and council members got a look at proposed construction for the Minot Police Department.
In a unanimous vote the council approved the final reading of the city budget without making any new adjustments. The budget had undergone public hearing where several citizens voiced concerns about increased spending, but no new cuts were made Tuesday evening.
Prior to the vote, Mayor Tom Ross praised the budget, calling it “A good decision for all of Minot.”
“It’s the best product humanely possible by the seven of us,” said Councilman Steven Podrygula.
Council member Lisa Olson called the budget process “the hardest job we have.”
Fellow council member Scott Burlingame told those attending the meeting that, “Everybody would like the best services possible but not pay for them.”
Minot resident Scott Samuelson addressed the council, telling them he is “really disappointed in this body.”
John McMartin, Minot, also spoke during the public appearance session. “I support your proposed budget and that’s exactly what I am doing tonight.”
Minot Police Chief John Klug introduced planners and architects that have been working on designing a new police department that will include expansion into the old City Hall. City Hall moved into a renovated Wells Fargo building downtown several months ago.
The presentation included plans for renovating the existing police station, which was attached to City Hall, and incorporating additional square footage vacated by city offices. Council members were told the existing building is a solid “envelope” but essentials such as heating and wiring were nearing the end of their lifespan and in need of replacement.
Even with upgrades the renovated facility would remain viable for an estimated 25 years. Planners also unveiled proposed new construction for PD Special Operations, such as S.W.A.T. and the bomb squad, and a building to house Municipal Court. Currently, Municipal Court is held at the City Auditorium. Additionally, a large parking garage would be constructed so that all patrol cars could be parked out of the elements. Presently, all patrol cars are parked outside when not in use. The new construction was said to have a 50-year life span.
Initial cost projections for renovating old City Hall to accommodate the Police Department, including a parking garage to house all patrol cars, was estimated to range from 46-52.1 million dollars. New construction for Special Operations and Municipal Court was estimated to be 62.4-70.7 million dollars.
Klug encouraged the public to attend one of two open houses at the Minot Police Department. Tours will be held October 5 and 10 from 3-7 p.m. Municipal Court will also be open to interested citizens.
