Norfolk Chief of Police says updates to station need to happen now

NORFOLK, Neb. -- Chief of Police Don Miller’s experience runs deep with the Norfolk Police Division having been with the department since 1990.

He said in those years, the building the police call home has seen limited changes or updates.

“Our building was built in 1986. We moved into it 1987," Miller said. "Since that time-frame we have done, other than some dispatch renovations, virtually nothing to the building.”

At the July 17 Norfolk city council, members approved a ballot initiative for the upcoming election, allowing voters to decide on a half-cent sales tax increase.

This tax would fund much-needed renovations at the station.

“Right now, we have people literally working in hallways," Miller said. "It’s not an efficient way to do work when you have to step aside every time somebody comes through.”

According to Miller, the sales tax would bring in roughly $16 million over 4 years.

Miller said about $11 million would cover the renovations to the station with $5 million going to the streets department.

“That money would go to expedite some street improvements," Miller said. "There’s nothing else on the ballot. It’s for the police department and what’s left goes to the streets."

If the initiative does not pass, Miller warns that problems - like poor morale, cramped conditions, and safety concerns will persist.

“This is a need," Miller said. "This has to happen this year. Nobody likes to pay taxes but we also can’t expect our staff to work in this environment.”

Norfolk Police plan to host at least two more open houses before November and invites all local residents to attend.

If approved by voters, the building could break ground as early as April or May of 2025.