By DANIELLE GALVIN
CARDINIA Shire Council will investigate the viability of purchasing the old Emerald police station.
Ranges Ward councillor Brett Owen moved a notice of motion at last week’s council meeting that council officers investigate the potential uses for the old police station and if council can afford it.
Cr Owen said the report would consider other community facilities in town, alternative funding options for the council as well as refurbishment and maintenance of the station.
“This report is about doing the homework about a possible consideration of council as to whether we purchase it or not,” he said.
“I don’t know how much the old police station site is worth, or whether we can afford it or whether we have a need for it in the community.
“This is a report that is being requested to come back to the council for councillors to consider,” he said.
Cardinia CEO Garry McQuillan advised that while the State Government had not “officially approached” council, there have been discussions with Gembrook MP Brad Battin.
“I was advised that the State Government’s departments and agencies where it is first offered don’t require it, and if council puts in a request to Brad Battin, then he will take the matter up with the Assistant Treasurer Gordon Rich-Phillips,” he said.
Cr Owen said he and his fellow Ranges Ward councillors had received a number of emails from various community groups who would like council to purchase it.
“It is really important to do this background information before we make a decision,” he said.
The report will be tabled at the June general council meeting.
