05/21/1997 Council Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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COUNCIL WORK SESSION MAY 21,1997 PUBLIC FACILITIES RECOMMENDATION, RANDY SCHUMACHER Mr. Schumacher explained staff solicited proposals for an architect for the Police Department building and the Early Childhood building. Staff has received 13 proposals and four (4) firms were interviewed. Staff is recommending Leonard, Parker and Associates be hired. This company has been in business for 40 years. They have a solid record and have also received many prestigious awards. Council Member Kuether asked if this firm would help with the YMCA design. Staff said yes. This matter is on the May 27th Council agenda. Mr. Schumacher explained that he has met with the Centennial School District to get specific details of their needs. The proposal is for a 12,000 square foot building to be constructed by the City and leased to the School District for 10 years. The most important benefit to this plan is that the City will put a total package together for the civic complex in the Village. The School District needs this building by the fall of 1998 The City Council asked several questions: Why is the School i to be located in the Village? Mr. Schumacher explained that c es<� S _ ��' � istrict is leasing space in Circle Pines but is looking at buying es with an old building on it. The old building would be reno g ated in the civic center on land that is already tax exempt would ep >ds i ino Lakes on the tax rolls. What makes the School Distr of 10 years? The School 1' that space will be avai What is the cost $1,000,000 depen ill not need the building at the end declining student population. This means r more of the current buildings. y Childhood building? Staff explained approximately the needs of the School District. An amended concept plan for the Village was displayed. The Town Center Committee has amended the concept to include all three (3) of the civic buildings. Staff noted that the buildings could be connected either above or below ground. Council expressed concern that the civic complex be a special place. Staff explained that the architecture will make it special. The need to be functional and within budget was emphasized. Staff explained that no decisions have been made regarding financing of the civic complex. Council asked for a complete financing package so that when a particular building is proposed, it will not be a surprise to the Council. Chief Pecchia told Council that the location of the Police Department building is very important because of the need for quick response to all police calls. PAGE 2