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City to pursue design‑build conversion of old Fire Station No.1 into building division annex; Whitehead selected for negotiation
Summary
Selection committee recommended Whitehead Construction to design and build a remodel of the former Fire Station No.1 into a city building division annex; staff said $7 million has been set aside from building division funds for construction and that the project aims to consolidate customer service, building and engineering functions.
City staff presented RFQ‑2438, a request for qualifications for design‑build services to convert the former Fire Station No.1 into a Building Division administrative office and customer service annex.
Staff said the city received four proposals, and a city selection team unanimously recommended Whitehead Construction to proceed with the design‑build process. The packet includes concept images of interior arrangements; staff said the shell and block construction are in solid condition and that the work will focus primarily on interior build‑out and some roofing repairs. The city has set aside $7,000,000 in the construction fund from building division fees to support the project.
Staff said the intent is to consolidate building division functions and improve coordination between building, engineering and account services to better serve commercial and residential customers. The project is one option staff is exploring alongside potential satellite offices in Southeast Winter Haven to improve inspection response times and customer service as development grows.
Commissioners discussed design flexibility, movable walls and future‑proofing the space for a 20‑year use horizon. Staff said they will negotiate an initial GMP for design services with Whitehead and return to the commission with subsequent GMP amendments for construction costs.
