Mokena dedicates new state-of-the-art police station, officers ready to move in

The Mokena Police Department opened the doors Wednesday to its new police station, which is seven times larger than its previous space and is complete with state-of-the-art technology.

Members of the department along with Mokena officials and dignitaries from throughout the area held a ribbon-cutting ceremony to celebrate the much-anticipated station, 10300 W. 191st St.

Musicians with the Joliet Police Pipes and Drums performed, and the United States, Illinois and Mokena flags were raised for the first time in front of the station’s entrance.

The department will move its operations from its 5,000-square-foot converted fire station on Front Street to the new 35,000-square-foot facility, which is equipped with an indoor tactical gun range, fitness center and five-cell detention center.

Other amenities include use-of-force simulators, evidence storage areas, advanced video and audio interview recording systems, multiple administrative offices and space for officers to decompress.

The facility is much needed and will be much appreciated, said police Chief Brian Benton, noting in the former station, showers were used for storage.

“With state-of-the-art facilities and cutting-edge technology, our officers will be better equipped to tackle the challenges of modern policing, and they will provide the most efficient policing services to our residents,” Benton said.

The station incorporates green technology with geothermal wells that can regulate the building’s temperature through water source heat pump units installed hundreds of feet underground. The station can also be used as a storm shelter.

“The goal of this project was to provide the officers and command staff of our Police Department with a facility that would match their operational and administrative professionalism, which has been achieved,” village administrator John Tomasoski said.

Benton said the department has anticipated the move for about two years and it’s almost surreal that the building has been completed.

All of the features will create a happier, more productive workforce and attract new applicants, Benton said.

“It is so exciting for us,” Benton said. “The buzz that’s been around the Police Department for the last six months because they’ve known it’s coming, I can’t put it into words. These officers are so excited to be here.”

Village Trustee George Metanias said the police station will serve the community for years to come.

“This building is not just a structure,” he said. “It’s a symbol of our collective commitment, safety, progress and community. It represents the hard work, dedication and vision of so many individuals who have contributed to making Mokena a better place to live.”

The village bought the 3.5 acre parcel in 2008, but the project was delayed due to the recession, Tomasoski said. At the time, the village completed the wastewater treatment plant renovation before turning its sights back to the police station, he said.

Construction cost about $18.2 million with the majority of it coming from savings built up over 13 years of surpluses, Tomasoski said.

“Being fiscally responsible to the taxpayers was also a huge priority to our present and past elected officials as it should be,” he said.

The village is now setting savings aside for its next capital improvement project, a new Village Hall, Tomasoski said.

Michelle Mullins is a freelance reporter for the Daily Southtown.