NORWICH — City voters will decide November 3 whether to approve a $55 million appropriation and bond authorization for a police-headquarters project at 300 Main Street downtown. The question was placed on the ballot by the City Council’s August 17 resolution.

The official ballot language covers planning, acquisition and construction. A yes vote approves the appropriation and borrowing authorization; a no vote rejects that ordinance. The council’s resolution also provides for temporary borrowing while bonds are being issued.

The proposed site is the former Chelsea Groton Bank building. In October 20 reporting by the Norwich Bulletin, Lt. Nicholas Rankin argued that a downtown headquarters would improve the department’s connection with the community. The newspaper reports that the plan would expand the available space from about 22,000 to 59,000 square feet.

The Bulletin describes proposed improvements to emergency communications, prisoner holding and officer locker areas, along with community space in the former bank lobby. It also reports concerns about privacy and space at the existing station, including rooms for the police chaplain to meet with grieving families and officers.

The $55 million figure is an authorization ceiling, rather than proof that the final bill will equal that amount. The Bulletin reports that officials intend to seek $20 million in state support and another $7 million federally. Those are prospective requests, not confirmed awards, and should not be subtracted from the borrowing figure as guaranteed savings.

The city’s certified resolution says the complete ordinance and question are available for public inspection through the City and Town Clerk. Residents reviewing the proposal should distinguish the legal borrowing authorization from later bidding, grants and construction decisions.

This report does not establish an individual household’s tax impact or a final construction schedule. Voters should use the city’s official election information to confirm their voting location and review the full referendum materials.