The City will turn to voters to consider funding for the replacement of Geneva’s aging Police Station after the City Council approved adding a $59.4 million public safety referendum on the March 2026 primary election ballot.

Geneva continues to be recognized for its historic charm and quality of life. However, maintaining older municipal buildings does present ongoing challenges. After spending the past several years evaluating its buildings, the City Council approved a facilities master plan in July. The plan, along with resident feedback over the past year, identified the Police Station as the City’s top priority to address.

The two-story Geneva Police Station at 20 Police Plaza is a conglomeration of three buildings built in 1915, 1953 and 1987. Over the years, the structure has been home to the Fire Department, the Public Works Department, Tri-Com Central Dispatch, and now the Police and Finance departments. Despite multiple renovations over the past 60 years, the facility no longer meets modern standards to provide high-level police services the community has come to expect or comply with current Illinois law.

The police station faces persistent operational problems, including frequent roof leaks and sewer backups that have resulted in flooding and a recent partial ceiling collapse. The building lacks adequate office space, secure parking, medical emergency access, and room for equipment. Employees have also reported rodent issues. The building is no longer cost-effective to repair and does not meet energy-efficiency standards.

If voters approved the referendum, the City would build a new police station on City-owned property on South Street adjacent to the Public Works Facility. The new building would provide adequate workspace, updated technology, and enhanced safety for officers and the public. The City would then sell the property at 20 Police Plaza following the completion of the new station.  

Residents can learn about the City’s need for a new police station, view preliminary architectural renderings, use an estimated referendum tax impact calculator, and review the facilities master plan on the City’s website.