Committee reviews Hopkins Building proceeds for Gateway public-safety center and East Precinct relocation

Committee members reviewed proposed uses for proceeds from the Hopkins Building sale, including a $375,000 capital request split between retrofitting the Gateway Inn as a public-safety resource center ($250,000) and relocating fire administration to the East Precinct ($125,000). Staff said the Hopkins sale has roughly $5.5 million in proceeds that have not yet been assigned to specific projects.

Director Blankley told the committee the Gateway conversion would centralize social workers, police mental-health officers and training space under one roof. "This would put them under 1 roof," he said, noting the location includes a large classroom frequently used for training. Staff estimated the center would house 13–14 people on a daily basis and provide space for joint trainings. Keith Hill described the East Precinct as structurally well-suited for administrative offices and said it likely costs less than converting warehouse logistics space.

Members emphasized public outreach and said they planned additional work sessions so residents could comment on the Gateway proposal; staff clarified that moving Hopkins proceeds into the capital budget at this stage only earmarks funds for these projects and does not authorize construction or spending. Any future design and construction contracts would return to the committee for approval.

Committee discussion referenced community concerns about the Gateway concept and several members requested clear schedules for upcoming work sessions and for when specific projects will return for decision. No vote to expend Hopkins proceeds for construction was recorded; staff were asked to bring detailed plans and timelines back to the committee.