Mixed Use of Commercial, Residential Space Recommended for Reuse of Town Hall, Police Station

"At the town hall site (HR&A) is recommending a three-story building - the ground level would be available for restaurant, retail space, and the top two floors would be residential," said Butler.

Both Butler, and Selectman Carmen E Dello Iacono Jr, said they'd like to see the Norfolk District Attorney's office move in to a new building at the site in 2017-2018. A three-story building was recommended for the police station, with the top two floors hopefully occupied by the district attorney and staff. The first floor would be a combination of commercial or retail space.

Iacono remarked that moving the Norfolk DA's office back to Dedham (it is now in Canton), would create "adrenaline" back in that area of town.

Butler also said that the proposal reusing ideas would not cost Dedham taxpayers more money.

"It would not (cost taxpayers money). One of the reasons the Selectmen engaged the services of the (analyst) firm... We want to understand the options we have for selling the land and the existing buildings, or leasing the properties. We havne’t made that decision yet," said Butler. "Through the years there’s been debate about whether town property should be sold. That discussion will take place after special town meeting. We haven’t made any deiciosns yet, and we’re going to share it with residents and town meeting reps and take input from them."

• A public informational meeting is scheduled for Thurs., Oct 3, at 7 p.m. at the Dedham Middle School. 
• Fin Com Warrant Hearings are scheduled for October 1, 8, 15, and 16. 

Both Iacono and Butler eagerly supported the proposal of the Rustcraft site.

"We have a chance, and the board itself has a way to change the way Dedham runs. We’re steering Dedham for the long term future with the Rustcraft proposal," said Iacono. "Honestly, after setting it up other municipalities will say 'Wow, that’ s a great idea - how do we do that to streamline (government and put departments under one roof). I love the concept of a municipal campus."

Butler said that putting a town hall, police station and senior center, as well as other town departments under one roof would significantly be a less expensive and quicker process than individual buildings.

Butler said that individual buildings would cost in the vicinity of $37 million for the project and take from seven to 12 years to build. Alternatively, building one building would cost about $28 million and be ready in about two years.