Umatilla Breaks Ground on $19.8 Million Police Station NOW

UPDATE: Umatilla has officially broken ground on a new $19.8 million police station as of March 3, 2023. This pivotal ceremony marks a significant commitment to public safety following the approval of a bond measure by voters in November.

In a statement reflecting the urgency of this development, Mayor Caden Sipe declared, “Today is more than the start of construction. It’s the beginning of keeping a promise of public safety.” The new 14,000-square-foot facility, set to be located on Sixth Street between C and D streets, will replace the outdated mobile home currently serving as the police station, which has been in use for over 40 years.

The urgency for this upgrade stems from the inadequacies of the existing facility. The new station will provide officers with essential resources to ensure the safety and well-being of both the staff and the community. It will include private meeting spaces for victims and witnesses, secure interview rooms, modern equipment, and a community room designed for public use.

Police Chief Ronald Bridge emphasized the critical need for this change, stating, “The current police station lacks a lot of things right now. This is really going to make a difference.” The city had faced escalating maintenance costs and operational inefficiencies, making the new construction not just beneficial but necessary.

The new police station is designed to accommodate future growth, with architect David Linton stating it is “right-sized for today and well into the future.” This facility aims to enhance the operational capabilities of law enforcement in Umatilla, providing a safe environment for officers to work and serve the community effectively.

The road to this groundbreaking was not without its challenges. A similar bond measure was rejected by voters in May 2025. However, the approved Public Safety Center Credit played a crucial role in securing the necessary support for the project during the second attempt. This credit offsets costs for residential taxpayers, making the bond more appealing.

City Manager Dave Stockdale explained that while the Public Safety Center Credit will cost the city approximately $115,000 annually, it ensures that local residents benefit from a significant investment. Notably, corporations in the Greater Umatilla Enterprise Zone, such as Amazon Web Services and Sabey, will bear 93.5% of the total cost through property taxes, ensuring the burden on local taxpayers remains minimal.

Once the new station is completed, which is expected to be by the summer of 2027, the old facility will be demolished, paving the way for additional public parking space. This transformation is set to enhance safety and accessibility for the community, reinforcing Umatilla’s commitment to public service.

As residents look forward to the completion of this modern facility, the city’s leadership remains optimistic that this investment will significantly improve public safety and community relations. Keep an eye on Umatilla as this ambitious project unfolds, marking a new era for local law enforcement.