A proposal presented by Cumberland County Sheriff’s Department patrol deputies to transfer a substation from Naples to Raymond has stalled.

Those in favor of moving the station say the move from Naples to Raymond could save money, reduce travel time and increase the department’s presence in Raymond.

Patrol deputies from the Cumberland County Sheriff’s Department circulated a memo stating they believed the dispatch center in Naples should be moved to Raymond in hopes of increasing operational efficiency. The substation has a variety of uses such as being a space for deputies to hold meetings, communicate with the office in Portland, and write reports.

The Sheriff’s Department made a formal proposal last year to the county commissioners with a financial analysis detailing cost savings, according to Raymond Town Manager Willard. Savings, ranging from $4 to $10,000, included commute time and fuel costs.

The memo prompted Capt. William Rhoads of the Cumberland County Sheriff’s Department to inquire with Willard about space at the Raymond Public Safety Building. Willard presented Rhoads with an offer for office space and access to attractive amenities like the workout facility and kitchen present at the Raymond Public Safety Building.

Commissioner Esther Clenott said ongoing discussion is occurring among the commissioners and the Sheriff concerning whether Raymond would be a better location for a substation. She said that discussions have slowed because of additional issues the commissioners are handling in Augusta at the moment.

County Manager Peter Crichton acknowledged the county is closely considering a variety of options.

“The commissioner is looking at possibilities of using both locations for increased police presence in the Lakes Region community,” said Crichton. Clenott affirmed that the idea of dual presence is being discussed.

The decision lies in the hands of the sheriff, commissioners, and town managers, according to Clenott. She will be visiting the Raymond Public Safety Building along with others involved in making the decision next Tuesday to meet with Willard and Raymond town selectmen. A similar appointment will be made with Naples’ town manager Derrick Goodine and Naples selectmen.

“That’s good news,” Willard said, who at one point in recent weeks thought the deal had fallen through. “I think the decision on the move should be made from an operational and financial standpoint. We aren’t seeking to lure the substation away from Naples. If (the commissioners) would like to keep it there, then that’s their decision. But we’ve heard in the past that there are clear advantages to moving it to Raymond. Advantages such as cost savings, geography, and savings in terms of fuel and hourly wages.”

Crichton likewise hasn’t ruled out the move but isn’t going to make any hasty decisions either.

“The substation has been in Naples a long time. We appreciate and value that relationship,” Crichton said.