Committee OKs $58,300 budget increase for Green Park wet detention basin design

The Finance, Budget and Personnel Committee recommended that the common council approve Budget Resolution 02-2025 on Jan. 21 to cover a $58,300 shortfall in final design work for the Green Park wet detention basin.

Jennifer Celinski, finance director, told the committee that “the city storm stormwater management plan was completed in 2023, and it provides recommendations for us to meet the upcoming phosphorus production requirements, including the the construction of wet detention ponds.” She said preliminary design is done, design completion is expected in 2025 and construction in 2026, and that the city had budgeted $50,000 for 2025 design work.

Celinski said the city received a bid of $98,500 for final design, leaving a $58,300 shortfall for 2025. To cover the cost without additional borrowing beyond the city’s borrowing capacity, staff proposed reducing the 2025 borrowing amount for the street seal coat and crack filling program by $58,300; Celinski said that program has unspent funds from prior years and “should not be adversely impacted.” She also noted the city was awarded a $150,000 Department of Natural Resources (DNR) grant that will cover portions of design and construction, and that the project might qualify in 2026 for a Clean Water Fund loan that could include principal forgiveness.

Committee members questioned whether the higher price was a cost underestimate or a timing issue; Celinski answered that much of the change reflected timing between the 2025 and 2026 budgets rather than a permanent doubling of project cost. A motion to accept Budget Resolution 02-2025 carried on a voice vote.

The committee record does not include a roll-call tally. The recommended action will go to the common council for final approval.