Answering A Different Call
Mike Drahos, P.E.
When the Mount Vernon and Lisbon Police Department outgrew its previous accommodations, local leaders saw an opportunity in an unexpected place. Rather than constructing a new facility, they repurposed a former Church of Latter-day Saints building, transforming it into a modern police station designed to support law enforcement operations for both communities.
Through a phased renovation approach, the facility was reimagined to accommodate evidence storage, vehicle support areas, staff collaboration spaces, and officer amenities.
Balancing Functionality, Security, and Flexibility
The renovation focused on the practical realities of modern policing. A portion of the former sanctuary was converted into a secure garage, evidence storage, meeting space, and support areas, while a building addition expanded capacity for police vehicles and equipment.
Future phases include larger locker room and restroom facilities to better support department personnel. The phased approach also allowed the department to occupy portions of the building during construction, minimizing disruptions to daily operations.
Modern Building Systems for Reliable Performance
Behind the scenes, significant MEP upgrades were integrated to improve reliability, efficiency, and occupant comfort. Aging HVAC equipment was replaced with new high-efficiency gas-fired furnaces while newer systems were retained where practical. The design also addressed longstanding heating and temperature-control challenges within the existing building. Dedicated garage heating and ventilation systems support year-round vehicle operations and indoor air quality.
Plumbing improvements included a new sanitary service sized for the expanded restroom and locker room facilities. Garage floor drains were routed through a sand and oil separator before connecting to the sanitary system, while domestic water and natural gas systems were extended to serve the renovated spaces.
The electrical infrastructure was modernized with LED lighting, updated power distribution, lighting controls, emergency egress lighting, voice and data cabling, and security system rough-ins, providing the foundation for efficient facility operations.
Preserving Value While Preparing for the Future
Converting a former place of worship into a modern public safety facility required careful integration of new building systems and operational requirements within an existing structure. The result is a practical, cost-effective police station that enhances functionality for officers while extending the useful life of a familiar community landmark.
By giving an existing building a new purpose, the project demonstrates how thoughtful renovation can deliver modern public safety facilities while maximizing the value of existing infrastructure.
Mike Drahos, P.E., Office Manager & Mechanical Engineer, Cedar Rapids
Mike Drahos is a Professional Mechanical Engineer with 37 years of experience in MEP design. His career has focused on designing HVAC and plumbing systems focused on reducing energy usage, conserving water and improving indoor air quality – in addition to assuring constructibility, maintainability, and serviceability for building owners, users and operators.
