Blocker: New Police HQ is Needed in Battle Creek

A 0.5 mill tax increase for capital projects in Battle Creek, approved by Battle Creek City Commissioners in a recent budget vote, is meant to fund a new police headquarters building. Police Chief Jim Blocker tells WBCK that building is sorely needed.

Two commissioners - Mark Behnke and Deb Owens - dissented on the budget, as proposed. Behnke told WBCK in an earlier interview he is not convinced the city needs to spend millions on such a project, particularly at a time when property tax revenues are down in the city.

Next year's budget employs some measures to close a gap, including more than $500,000 from a reserve fund.

"If not now, when?" Blocker said "Building something new - there's always risk involved...at least 7 of the 9 [commissioners] were clearly convinced that...this is the best time to move forward on the project."

Blocker discussed why the current police facility is antiquated and should be replaced. Click the player below to hear his comments.

Hear The Richard Piet Show weekday mornings from 5:30-9 on WBCK.