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Commission directs staff to issue RFQ to gather ideas for Fargo Civic Center's future
Summary
The commission directed staff to develop a request for qualifications (RFQ) to solicit concepts for reuse, activation or redevelopment of the Fargo Civic Center, with commissioners debating costs to modernize the facility and whether an RFQ is premature given capital needs.
The Fargo City Commission voted to direct staff to prepare a request for qualifications to gather public and developer ideas for the Fargo Civic Center’s short- and medium-term reuse and activation.
Mayor Mahoney said he wants to invite ideas from outside entities that could increase the building’s vitality and better activate downtown. He proposed drafting an RFQ this month with the goal of returning to the commission for approval in late January or early February.
Several commissioners supported soliciting concepts but raised concerns about deferred capital needs. One commissioner cited a 2021 JLG study estimating $6.1 million to update the facility; staff said an inflation-adjusted estimate today would be about $7.5 million. That commissioner argued the city lacks funds to cover major infrastructure upgrades and suggested more financial analysis before widely soliciting proposals.
Commissioner Strand said he welcomes public and developer ideas but also wants direct public input on possible uses and noted examples—including childcare hubs—that might be considered. Commissioner Holpack said the RFQ can identify short-term, workable uses under the building’s existing condition; she cited recent successful events such as Kris Kringle Mart and TEDx that use the building today.
After discussion, the commission approved the RFQ direction on a roll-call vote; the recorded votes included Aye from Commissioner Kolpak, Aye from Mayor Mahoney and No from Commissioner Turnberg (the meeting record shows some commissioners voting Aye and one No). The motion was moved and seconded; staff was directed to return with a draft RFQ for commission review.
