HomeMy WebLinkAbout06-23-2014 WS Minutes
Meeting of: COLUMBIA HEIGHTS CITY COUNCIL
Date of Meeting: June 23, 2014
Time of Meeting: 6:00 PM-or immediately 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 6:40 PM
Present: Mayor Peterson, Council Member Nawrocki, Council Member Diehm, Council
Member Schmitt, Council Member Williams, City Manager Walt Fehst, Public Works
Director Kevin Hansen, Finance Director Joseph Kloiber, and City Clerk/Council Secretary
Katie Bruno
CONSTRUCTION ESTIMATES AND BONDING FOR LIBRARY PROPOSAL:
Cindy McCleary representing Leo Daly reviewed a PowerPoint presentation regarding two
potential library sites; the former NEI site (42nd Ave NE), and the former Burger King site
(Central Ave). Soil borings have been completed on both sites to look at drainage and
structural support capability.
Joe Brower, also from Leo Daly explained that a site costs comparison was completed. The
following factors were considered; building costs, soil corrections, environmental
remediation, foundation costs, floor slabs, utilities and stormwater. The NEI site estimate
ranged from $6,648,757 to $6,949,730. The Burger King site estimate is $7,411,377.
Ms. McCleary explained the needs assessment has been about a nine month process, and
input from the residents of Columbia Heights has been considered.
Advantages of the Burger King site include location on Central Ave, direct access to bus line,
expandability, south facing entry, and less storm water regulations. It was reported that the
proposed NEI site would be developed to capacity, without room for expansion.
Councilmember Schmitt questioned the direction of the building on the former NEI site. Mr.
Brower explained that the proposed orientation would provide for the most natural daylight,
as well as provide better visibility from Central Ave. Ms. McCleary noted that at this point,
designs are very preliminary, and can change if necessary.
A resident questioned the safety of pedestrians, if the library is constructed at the Central Ave.
site. Ms. McCleary stated that Public Safety is considered in the planning process, and
consideration is given to visibility issues.
The consultants pointed out that the Burger King site is very well suited for a library, noting
an apparent lane for a drive-up book depository in addition to a having adequate room for
green space.
Ms. McCleary commented that they would like to have an idea of the anticipated building
materials for the cost estimation. Councilmember Nawrocki asked why a 22,000 square foot
building was proposed, when the initial plans called for a building between 22,000 and 24,000
square feet. Ms. McCleary stated that they used that same size building on each site for
comparison purposes. City Manager Fehst stated the 22,000 square feet building was
proposed based on the City’s financials, and reminded the Council that the schematics
presented were informational at this time.
Meeting adjourned at 7:15 PM.