City Hall's move to firehouse still on the table

NORWICH – Renovations to the third floor of the firehouse and repairs to the wastewater treatment plant were among topics that came up again at Thursday’s meeting of the city’s Finance and Personnel committee.

The City of Norwich has been discussing the possibility of moving City Hall from its current location at the old train depot to the third floor of the firehouse for several years. The move would have the potential to save the city money on heating and maintenance costs by consolidating operations from two buildings to one.

At Thursday night’s meeting, the question was asked whether the city wanted to proceed with the plans or stop. City Finance Director William Roberts said he had been keeping track of the fund transfers for the project over the years.

“Going forward, it would take another $412,000,” Roberts said. Of the $412,000, the city already has $280,000 earmarked for the project. An additional $131,000 would be needed.

Ward Five Alderman Paul Laughlin asked Roberts if any funding sources were available to help alleviate the costs.

“Is there a chance there is any grant money available for this project?” he asked. Roberts said there may be, but in light of the fair amount the city has previously received, he did not know what the chances for that would be. The issue has been moved for discussion by the full council.