New police headquarters needs more money

The City Commission is expected today to approve spending up to $3.1 million more to complete the new Sarasota Police Headquarters.

The money will be allocated to contingency funds, furniture, fixtures, equipment and a police-management system.

Even with the additional spending, the project will come in at $45.7 million, which is still under the $46 million budget.

Mayor Kelly Kirschner will also be asked to sign a letter of support for the use of a piece of steel salvaged at the World Trade Center as public art outside the new police building.

The receipt of the steel has already been approved, but the mayor’s letter could expedite its delivery.

The department was originally scheduled to move into the new building in April, but that has been moved back to mid-summer.

Contact Robin Roy at [email protected].