LIBERTYVILLE, Ill.—Village officials have reached a critical financial and operational milestone in the multi-year effort to replace Libertyville’s aging police headquarters. Earlier this month, Village Trustees authorized the issuance of $25 million in alternative revenue bonds, clearing the way for a modern, 46,598-square-foot facility to rise on the footprint of the current Schertz municipal building at 200 E. Cook Ave.
The approved ordinance triggers a high-stakes timeline for the project. A formal notification hearing is set for March 10, with the bond sale tentatively scheduled for March 24. If the financial phase concludes as expected, officials anticipate breaking ground this May.
The project addresses what the village describes as an “antiquated” 26,295-square-foot station that no longer supports modern law enforcement technology or staffing needs. The new design, led by FGM Architects, nearly doubles the department’s current square footage. Key upgrades include a five-lane firearms range, a secure “Sally Port” for prisoner transport, and a specialized layout that prevents victims and suspects from crossing paths in public areas.
To maintain the $43 million budget, the village is utilizing a dual-funding strategy. While $25 million will be covered by bonds, the remaining $18 million is being drawn from existing reserves, bolstered in part by the recent sale of Libertyville Sports Complex properties. Village Administrator Kelly Amidei emphasized that the debt will be serviced by the 0.5% non-home-rule sales tax enacted in 2022, meaning the project will not result in a direct property tax increase for residents.
The selection of a builder is also entering its final stage. Four pre-qualified contractors—Camosy Construction, Henry Bros. Co., R.C. Wegman Construction, and Path Construction—are required to submit their sealed bid packages by February 27. The village is working with CCS International, Inc., acting as the owner’s representative, to ensure the winning bid aligns with the strict $43 million cap.
Because the new station will occupy the existing site, the department is preparing for a total relocation during construction. Other municipal departments have already moved to renovated spaces at 325 N. Milwaukee Avenue. The village is currently finalizing a temporary base for police operations and securing agreements with neighboring communities for detention and lockup space.
Barring any delays in the bidding or bond sale process, demolition of the 1968 Schertz building is expected to begin this spring, marking the start of the most significant municipal infrastructure project in Libertyville’s recent history.
