Mayor Asks University Park Council to Review Town Hall Expansion Plans

At

"It would be very nice, if the council were to take a hard look at it," Tabori said. "It would serve as office space, community center and a sheltering place."

According to the plans, the existing basement would still house the police department's evidence room and public works' space and tool room. However it would also create room for police record storage, town archives storage and a locker room for public works employees.

The first floor would also remain the same with the main office, DPW Director office, police squad room and reception area and the staff lounge. Yet, a large meeting space would be added that would house council and community meetings, a serving kitchen would allow for town-wide dinners to be held there as well. It would also allow for more office space.

The 1875 square-foot meeting space could fit 125 people seated with tables or 267 with chairs only.

The third floor would still be the home of the mayor and police chief's office as well as a council chamber, that currently exists, but a town history room could be added.

According to the plans, originally pitched in 2009, the project could cost nearly $2.3 million. But, Tabori said Monday that because the space could be used as emergency shelter, since the town hall now has a generator, they may be able to get FEMA funds to cover some of the cost.

Tabori said a grant writer would need to be hired to research and write up a proposal.

Councilman James Gekas said he'd like to see solar panels on the building if it moves forward. Gekas, who is a part of University Park Community Solar, LLC., said if the project with the elementary school doesn't work out, it's a way for the town to still have another solar project.

Council remanded the plans to committee.