DeKALB | Conference rooms are being converted into offices, the communications center is at maximum capacity and there is no more space in the locker room.

This is the current state of the DeKalb Police Department, which has been seeking new facilities for over a decade.

The current station is located in City Hall and the department has run out of space while waiting for financing for a new station.

“We needed this 10 years ago,” said DeKalb Police Chief Bill Feithen.

Feithen said the community has expanded and activity has increased significantly since the building was constructed in 1968. There is simply not enough space, he said.

“It’s hurting our efficiency,” said Feithen. “We have a lot of difficulty when we have cases of multiple victims and witnesses.”

About a year ago space was bought for a new station.

The site is located across from Pizza Hut on West Lincoln Highway at Normal Road. At this time, it is unknown if the project will have an effect on surrounding homes.

The location allows for better access north of the train tracks, where most criminal activity takes place.

City Manager Mark Biernacki said they are considering a facility as large as 50,000 square feet, but it will more likely be around 35,000, a space that would more than double the size of the current station.

“Initially, the difficulty was siting. Now, the difficulty is financing,” said Feithen.

Sixth Ward Alderman Dave Baker said the DeKalb government continues to look for funding and that it’s “absolutely paramount” to find it.

“[The DeKalb Police Department] has waited longer than they should have,” said Baker.

After the space was selected, a 10-year deadline was set to build the new station.

“I would hope to see it built well before that deadline,” said 5th Ward Alderman Pat Conboy.

“It’ll create a safer environment,” said Feithen. “It’s going to happen. It’s just a question of when.”