West Richland voters considering $12.5 million bond for new police station

The City of West Richland's Police Department started using its current facility in 1976... 43 years ago.

Since then, the city-- and the police department-- have grown significantly, as have the functions of the police agency.

West Richland Police Chief Ben Majetich says the've outgrown the current 3,000 square foot facility.

"I have not had one person say you're fine where you're at, 'cause anybody with eyes walking in can see the working conditions our men and women have to function under need improvement," Majetich said.

The city has been gearing for this special election for more than two years, holding public meetings, facilitating citizen listening groups, and sharing with the community the benefits of building a new facility.

"Coming into the front door, just the lobby itself. Our lobby area is currently 4x6. We store finger-printing, drug take-back and our front counter services all operate in that confined area."

Majetich says the new 22,000 square foot building will accommodate future growth.

The city is asking voters to approve a $12.5 million bond for the new building, land, and furniture and electronics to outfit the building.

Ballots were mailed out last week, and need to be dropped into a ballot drop box or into a mail by by Tuesday, April 23rd.

Drop boxes are at: