LAKEPORT >> The Lakeport Police Department (LPD) is one step closer to moving its headquarters.
On Tuesday, the Lakeport City Council unanimously approved to adopt a negative declaration and zone change for the LPD’s new building, after holding a public hearing.
The property at 2025 S. Main St., in front of the Kmart location, used to house the Social Security Department. It was formerly zoned for major retail uses. With the council’s action, the property is now designated for public and civic uses.
Discussions regarding the proposed move have gone on for well over a year. Even after approval, a zoning issue delayed the move. Kevin Ingram, Lakeport community development director, explained that the zoning change was not required until recently because Social Security had leasing the building from a landlord. The property is now owned by the city, making the change necessary.
Since July 1999, two buildings on the northern edge of the downtown area, oriented in an ‘L’ shape, have served as the police department. However, the shape and the interior space often hindered communication and might have put people in danger.
“These issues came to a serious head when LPD staff experienced several incidents where violent persons have come onto the facility grounds and made threats to staff on-site,” Ingram explained.
The new building will also allow for a larger evidence room and more office space, as well as accommodate an electrical/server room, a phone system capable of operating multiple telephone lines, a surveillance system and generator to ensure department operations in an emergency. It also features water fountains, which are lacking at the current facility.
Formerly reviewed by the Lakeport Planning Commission in April, when they discussed use and activities taking place at the bus stop located in front of the building, the project was recommended for approval.
Contact J. W. Burch, IV at 900-2022.
