Genola council authorizes RFP for design of new public works building

The Genola Town Council authorized the mayor to proceed with a request for proposals for architectural and design services to create plans for a new public works building. The proposed facility is described in the RFP as roughly 120 by 50 feet with four drive-through bays, an office, a small break room and public restrooms intended for event use.

Mayor Neil Brown said the current public works building is structurally deteriorated and not safe for continued use; staff and the mayor described operational needs such as indoor storage for plow trucks so they can remain stocked with salt and receive indoor maintenance during winter. The RFP as presented asks firms to provide design services and remain engaged through bid and construction support.

Council members discussed possible sites; staff identified an area just south of the communications towers (east side of highway, west of the tracks) as a likely location and noted constraints where fiber and power lines prevent deep digging but allow surface paving. The council asked staff to split design costs among parks, roads and water capital outlays (the proposed budget includes an estimated $175,000 to start design work, divided across those funds). The council authorized the mayor to finalize and post the RFP through the state procurement system to encourage broad participation.