Sauk County approves new space-needs study, will re-evaluate courts and Quartz buildings

Sauk County supervisors voted to hire Strang Incorporated to refresh the county’s 2019 space-needs study and to evaluate the courts building and a nearby facility known as the Quartz building as potential county space.

The contract authorizes an updated assessment of department footprints, shared-office “hoteling” options and whether county services should be relocated or consolidated. Ian, a county facilities staff member who described the work to the board, said Strang is already familiar with the earlier study and can update the analysis faster and at lower cost than a new firm. “Going with Strang is probably our cheapest and best route to go because they're already familiar with everything,” Ian said.

Why it matters: the county in 2019 identified additional space needs; since then departments and technology changes — and the COVID pandemic — have altered space use. The courts building has been marketed in recent months and county staff said the Quartz property includes about eight acres and roughly 38,000 square feet; asking prices mentioned in discussion have varied, and at one point the courts building was cited as listed near $7 million before reductions to about $4 million.

During discussion supervisors asked whether the study would assess different facility types and whether campus properties already owned by the county (including parcel(s) at UW–Baraboo campus) could accommodate departments. Ian and other staff said Strang would interview department heads about current and projected needs, lay out proposed square-foot plans, and examine alternate sites. The measure passed by roll call, 25 in favor and 1 opposed; five supervisors were excused.

Next steps: Strang will collect department input, reassess current space allocations and return recommendations on whether to pursue courthouse expansion, repurpose existing buildings or consider other properties. County staff said the study should clarify whether the county should pursue the courts building while it remains available or decline and consider other options.

Board action recorded: Resolution to contract with Strang Incorporated to revisit the 2019 space-needs study and evaluate the courts building for county functions, approved 25–1.