NORWICH – City officials last week took the first step toward replacement of the roof at City Hall and voted unanimously to contact engineers for bid specifications for the project, a move that could signal a decision to keep city offices right where they are.

Since 2004, city officials have repeatedly debated the relocation versus the renovation of City Hall, which has called the former train depot at One City Plaza home for nearly 14 years.

Ward 6 Alderman Robert Jeffrey, who presided at last week’s Common Council meeting, suggested “due to public sentiment,” City Hall should remain in its current location and “time is of the essence” for the roof to be repaired.

Aldermen Walt Schermerhorn and John Deierlein agreed with the decision, although Deierlein stated there were “definite financial advantages” if City Hall were to relocate to the third floor of the adjacent firehouse.

“If taxpayers are willing to pay for repairs, offices should remain in their current location,” said Deierlein.