A notable aspect of the meeting was the debate over the proposed tower for the new police station. Warren Coupland voiced reservations.” His concerns were echoed by the public, with residents questioning the necessity of the tower and its potential to overshadow understated historical buildings in the community. James Testa supported the tower but suggested lowering it to better align with the building’s design. The commission ultimately considered removing the tower for cost-saving reasons and to maintain the historical aesthetic, with the representative of the task force admitting the design was altered based on input from the commission and the community.

The use of substitute materials also sparked a debate. Joseph Stevenson presented research advocating for a slate roof, consistent with the Secretary of Interior’s standards for new construction. Other commission members sought real slate samples to compare with the six imitation options found, three of which appeared “extraordinarily real.” The commission stressed the importance of authenticity, requesting samples and considering the visibility of these materials from the street. The substitute materials’ debate extended to the broader discussion of non-contributing properties within the historic district, emphasizing the need for thorough evaluation of materials that match the historic character of the area.

The site plan and design details of the police station were scrutinized, with discussions encompassing the placement of HVAC units, a backup generator, and infrastructure modifications for traffic control, particularly at the intersection of St John and Lafayette. The city engineer provided updates on the status of securing permissions for the project, including the Green Acres diversion and coordination with other entities.

The meeting touched on the integration of the building into the city, with one commission member emphasizing the importance of incorporating local streets into the planning. The height of the Mansard roof and the installation of solar panels were discussed, with a focus on concealing the panels to preserve the building’s aesthetic. The Chief of Police highlighted the project’s significance for the department and community, thanking the commission for the opportunity to present the plans.