HomeMy WebLinkAbout03-02-2015 Work Session
Meeting of: COLUMBIA HEIGHTS CITY COUNCIL
Date of Meeting: March 2, 2015
Time of Meeting: 7:00 PM-Following the EDA Meeting
Location of Meeting: CONFERENCE ROOM 1
Purpose of Meeting: WORK SESSION
CALL TO ORDER/ROLL CALL
The meeting was called to order at 9:00 PM
Present: Mayor Peterson, Council Member Nawrocki, Council Member Schmitt, Council Member
Williams, Council Member Murzyn Jr, City Manager Walt Fehst, Public Works Director Kevin Hansen,
Library Director Renee Dougherty, and City Clerk/Council Secretary Katie Bruno
Discussion regarding City CIP – Buildings
Director of Public Works Kevin Hansen gave an overview of a five year Capital Improvement Plan for
City Hall. Hansen reported that studies and analysis were completed with both Horowitz NSI (HVAC
vendor) and Delco (Roofing Contractor.) Hansen went through the various items at City Hall that will
require repair and replacement over the next five years. Additionally City Hall has both asbestos and
lead abatement to be completed. The projected cost to address the issues is approximately $640,000.
Councilmember Williams asked if an efficiency study has been done. Hansen stated we have not, but
certainly could do so, it was noted that any improvements made, we try to maintain 90% efficiency.
The funding source for the proposed projects would come from Fund 411, which currently has a balance
of about $1,000,000. The council discussed the effectiveness of spending $640,000 to maintain an
underutilized aging building.
Discussion regarding City Library site plan
Director of Public Works Kevin Hansen reported there was a meeting on February 28th with the
Architect and some of the LDTF members. Three site plans were presented to the council; the third
rendering was favored by the task force. Library Design Task Force Chairperson Catherine Vesley
commented that option #3 provides for a multi-purpose component.
Councilmember Nawrocki expressed concern, noting that only three of the task force members were
present at the meeting with the architects. Director Hansen noted that he spoke with the other task force
members, and received their input as well.
Councilmember Nawrocki commented that he would have preferred to have had the meeting materials
available in advance.
Director Hansen suggested the schedule a worksession for a presentation from the architect on March
23rd, prior to the council meeting, with the plan to hold a Public Open House on March 26th.
Councilmember Nawrocki suggested the public have the opportunity to review the three site plans,
noting that her prefers option #1, for accessibility reasons, as well as the location of the parking lot.
Director Hansen noted that typically businesses prefer to be street-front; with parking in the rear.
Director Hansen indicated that in order to remain on schedule, they will need to start soil borings.
Mayor Peterson and Manager Fehst stated that the Public Meetings will provide an opportunity for the
public to participate.
Chairperson Catherine Vesley commented that construction costs continue to rise, and delaying the
project would likely result in greater costs.
Mayor Peterson stated site #3 solves many issues, and is the best option to meet the budget.
Councilmember Schmitt expressed concern with the marketability of the site behind the library,
although her preference is design site #3.
Director Hansen reported that developers were consulted, and it is their option that the rear site is not
desirable for businesses, as they would prefer street front. The site could better be suited for residential
or other uses. Councilmember Schmitt stated that we would need to be sure the vacant lot is maintained.
Director Hansen reported a Public Meeting is tentatively scheduled for March 26th , the location has yet
to be determined.
Library Director Renee Dougherty commented that she prefers site #3, as it “opens up” the library,
making it welcoming. Dougherty’s only concern is the details regarding the book return.
Meeting Adjourned at 10:14 PM
Respectively Submitted,
____________________________
Katie Bruno,
City Clerk/Council Secretary