RES 77211 - Laserfiche WebLink

The use of other buildings, either existing ones or buildings that would be available if some new facilities were constructed has been discussed in the past. Specificly, the old Post Office was offered to the City at a cost $225,000. or on a lease basis with improvements to suit for $40,000.-$50,000. annually. Also, the use of the Police Building, if vacated by the Police Department in favor of a new building, has been mentioned as a possible location for the City Council Chambers. Either or both of these suggestions would effectively preclude the development of the Civic Center concept at least for the next 20 years. In addition, neither of these buildings were designed for the uses we might desire, modifications would be very expensive and, in the case of the old Post Office, result in the acquisition of land we do not need. In the case of the current Police Building, my observation is that the building is in an advanced state of deterioration and would re- quire extensive improvements to be suitable for use as a Council Chamber. There are no doubt more arguments against the use of these buildings but the ones described here are probably enough to indicate the problems involved. Basic Considerations for New Buildings When discussing which, if any, new City buildings should be constructed several basic considerations are important. 1. Any building additions or expansions will have to serve the needs of the City for at least the next 20 years and probably longer. Deferred construction of buildings has a real and identifiable cost. The construction cost index typically escalates at a rate of 12-15 percent annually. 3. Specific building needs. Fire Station Two. This facility is currently a house in a residential area. While this is not a permanent facility, purchase now for $68,000. will avoid $5,400. in annual lease payments. When a new facility in the area is required the house could be sold as a single-family dwelling and the proceeds, including any profit, used to offset the cost of the new station. Police Building. The existing Police Station is extremely inadequate for the needs of a modern and effective police operation. The con- tinued deterioration of this building can be anticipated and if the future holds an expansion of the police force, this building will be- come even more inadequate and could impare the effectiveness of the department. Addition to City Hall. While this building is only a few years old, the staff has been partially disbursed due to the lack of space. A portion of the Recreation Department and the City Attorney's office are located in other facilities. It would be difficult ~o attach a cost to this situation but I believe there are costs in the form of more difficult coordination and disrupted communication among the staff.