Smaller station on ballot

A $6.6 million proposal for a new police station in Holliston, which supporters say is sorely needed to replace the current cramped and unhealthy facility, faces a final hurdle on Election Day.

Town Meeting last week approved borrowing the money to build the station by a 173-12 vote.

"I realize this is a lot of money," said Carl Damigella , chairman of the Board of Selectmen. "But it's something that is greatly needed."

During lengthy debate, a small but vocal group of opponents said that the station project should be delayed until the town pays down its existing debt.

In the May town elections, a tax increase proposal to fund a new police station was defeated by 62 votes.

The Police Station Study Committee has since cut the project cost by more than $700,000, reducing the size of the proposed building by nearly 4,000 square feet.

Supporters hope the project will get a boost from the lower price tag, the higher turnout expected because of the state election, and a months-long information campaign.

A string of speakers at Town Meeting outlined their reasons for supporting the project.

They said the current 7,200-square-foot station was built in 1969 for a staff of nine to 12, while today's staff numbers 24.

Also, they said, the station is contaminated with lead dust from a firing range that used to be housed in the basement, as well as asbestos.

Resident Douglas Foss said he agreed that a new station was necessary but the town can't afford it. The town should pay off other projects before going further into debt, which will drive high tax bills even higher, he said.

"I want to live here. I want to be able to afford this town."