City Building Shuffle DIV ISION OF POLICE
Starting Soon
The 14-month scheduled construction of the Westerville Justice Center stayed largely on track throughout winter, and the building is nearing completion in May. That means all three bureaus (Patrol, Investigations and Community Services) of Westerville Division of Police (WPD) will join administration under the same roof for the first time in more than 20 years. Mayor’s Court and Police Records will also be located at the Justice Center. All that moving this summer starts a process involving several City buildings that will take several weeks to complete. Here’s what you need to know:
WHAT IS HAPPENING WITH THE FORMER WPD HEADQUARTERS NEXT TO CITY HALL?
The City will keep this building (29 S. State St.) and renovate it for use by the departments that now occupy 64 E. Walnut St. That includes the City’s Planning & Development office, Utility Billing and Income Tax and Information Systems/IT. The building on Walnut will be sold after those departments move out.
WHAT HAPPENS TO THE INVESTIGATIONS BUREAU AT 28 S. STATE ST.?
See page 11. This historic building in Uptown has been owned by the City since 1985. It has been sold for a restaurant use, adding to Uptown’s dining and entertainment amenities.
WHAT IF I AM DUE IN MAYOR’S COURT ON A WEDNESDAY THIS SUMMER?
Refer to the City website for any changes of venue. Mayor’s Court will continue to operate at Westerville City Hall prior to moving, and will communicate any offline time or changes of venue on the website, or on your citation/ticket. You can make payments online, by mail or via dropbox if needed. See www.westerville.org/mayorscourt for full details.
HOW DO I GET PUBLIC RECORDS FROM WPD DURING THIS TIME?
Refer to the City website and social media accounts for updates on any move-related downtime for in-person service at the Records Division. WPD offers a web-based accident and/or incident report portal, and all records requests may also be submitted online. Find all resources at police.westerville.org.
WHEN WILL I BE ABLE TO SEE THE NEW JUSTICE CENTER?
The City is planning to host an open house in late summer, once staff members are fully moved in. Tours of public spaces will be available to see the project in its complete form. Watch the website or sign up for the weekly e-newsletter at www.westerville.org.
The Westerville Citizen’s Academy Experience The class of 2022 just started its exploration of City services, departments and programs in the 10week Westerville Citizen’s Academy. Residents will spend the months of April, May and part of June interacting with staff members and learning about facilities, programs, equipment, finances and more. The Academy is a fully hands-on process, taking place on Thursday nights throughout the course of the program. Participants will also learn about public service opportunities, including how to serve on a City Board or Commission. Find out more, including how to reserve a spot for Spring 2023, at www.westerville.org/WCA.
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