Oak Ridge North police department to relocate to new public works facility

Oak Ridge North City Council unanimously agreed to move the city’s police department to the future public works facility during its regular Jan. 24 meeting.

The police department will be included in the design process for the public works facility, which is nearing an initial review session with engineers, according to the city.

Council said the relocation will allow the police department to expand and the new location will keep the department away from construction during the Robinson Road realignment. In addition, city officials said the relocation plan is cost effective.

“It sounds like it makes more sense to plan for it in advance," Council Member Dawn Candy said. "If money [falls] from the sky and we are able to do something else—great. But, at least we’d be prepared the other way.”

Council addressed concerns regarding relocating the police department to the east side of the railroad tracks by stating that the relocation would not affect officer patrols.

No official action was taken regarding the police department relocation as it was listed as a guidance-only item on council's agenda.

Also during the meeting, council completed the first of two required readings of a resolution which authorizes a $4 million loan from the Oak Ridge North Economic Development Corp. According to city officials, once both readings are completed, council will approve the resolution and the loan will be used to build public facilities. The EDC is a nonprofit citizen volunteer group funded by $0.005 of dedicated sales tax, according to the organization's website. Its goal includes attracting and promoting businesses to the city, according to the organization.