Monday, the council made a step forward, though it did so with a split vote and a lengthy discussion that became contentious at one point.

By a 3-2 vote, with council members Dennis Bixby and Bill Peak voting against, the council voted to move forward with research of possible sites at 725 Laming Rd. and 302 Shoemaker Way, two selections from a field of nine.

Discussion centered around whether the city was in a position to borrow money or increase mills in an effort to finance a new station. The building at 725 Laming had an estimated cost of $965,000 to $1.035 million and was being offered turnkey, meaning the current owners of the business, Everlasting Specialites, would take care of renovations needed at the building.

The other finalist, 302 Shoemaker Way, had a proposed cost to purchase and renovate of $833,050. Installing aphalt to the gravel parking area was not included in the estimate.

At one point in the meeting, Mayor Jason Ward and Bixby had an exchange of words about the issue, but Bixby later apologized for his actions.

— For much more on the police station and other meeting items, go to tonganoxiemirror.com and see the Feb. 1 print edition.