CC 08-31-1998 - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

. e . ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - AUGUST 31. 1998 11 approximate 10,000 square foot facility for $1.7 to $1.8 million. The old space needs study was reviewed and the conclusion of that process ended in a space needs study of 16,000 square feet. In March of 1998, the Council talked about potential changes to the 16,000 square foot proposal based on discussions from their retreat, which resulted in a downsizing to approximately 15,000 square feet. The estimated costs for building construction presented in March was approximately $2.1 million. Mr. Fritsinger explained that the cost, at this point in time, has not changed to a great extent but he wants to make sure the Council is clear that the $1.7 million included the furniture and cable systems but the $2.1 million figure does not include those costs. Using the estimates provided, the total estimated project cost is $2.7 to $2.8 million, plus fees. Mr. Fritsinger explained that some of the changes have removed some ofthe potential bid alternate issues, but the budget is effected by the significant increase in the building size (60% increase in the footprint from what was proposed in 1992). Other issues related to the stonelbrick treatments and a building design which better fits the site. He stated he wants to ensure the Council understands the full costs before proceedings. If the project proceeds, staff recommends the construction documents be prepared in early November, bid opening in December, and intent that construction would begin Spring 1999. Mr. Fritsinger stated one of the big components is the ability to obtain a lease from the National Guard and negotiations on that lease agreement will begin in several weeks. Mr. Fritsinger stated the issue of the process outlined for the Council, relatcd to TCAAP Phase II planning process, also may need to be discussed to provide a better understanding ofthe potential of the property to be released soon and what issues fall into the implementation of the reuse plans. He stated one of the potential outcomes would be that the long term benefit of TCAAP to the City is not as significant as expected today and a decision may be made to "cut our losses" and do something different. Mr. Fritsinger stated it raises the issue of impact on the location of the City Hall. He asked if the Council remains comfortable with this being the best site for City Hall. Mr. Fritsinger stated his memorandum outlines the timing issues and how that fits into the current City Hall three-year lease. He eXplained that this will fit into the schedule being presented tonight to proceed with construction in the Spring of 1999. Mr. Fritsinger stated that over the last two years a lot of work has taken place on this program from the design aspect to assure it fits the community. Mr. Fritsinger explained that the Council is asked to authorize the architect to proceed with the preparation of construction plans and that the Council would further direct the City Administrator to negotiate fees with Architectural Alliance as a result of changes in the scope of the project. Councilmember Keirn stated that ever since she started serving on the Council the issue of the City Hall site has been debated and it was determined this is the most acccptable site in the City. She stated she does not want to go back to "square one" and start analyzing other locations. Councilmember Kcim stated this is still a good location, across the street from the previous City Hall location, and she does not foresee why that would be a negative. She supported moving forward with construction plans and noted that negotiating the lease is a good indication it will happen.