The Oak Park City Council voted Dec. 1 to award professional services and demolition‑related contracts tied to the city’s new community center project.

Deputy City Manager Dave DeCoster recommended Barton Mallow Builders as the construction manager for the community center, citing pre‑bid staffing costs ($71,795), post‑bid staffing and services estimated on a $35 million construction cost, a 1.8% construction management fee, and other standard bonding and insurance fees. City staff said funding is available in the community center construction fund and that the contract requires city‑attorney review prior to execution.

Council discussed the company’s local track record and a pre‑construction pledge the firm included. The motion to award the contract passed on roll call: Mayor McClellan — Yes; Council member Whitehead — Yes; Council member Crawford — Yes; Mayor Pro Tem Edgar — No.

Separately, the council received a staff recommendation and moved to award the low bid for multi‑campus asbestos abatement and universal waste disposal to BDS Environmental of Warren, Mich., for $221,077 to remove hazardous materials at the ice arena, pool bathhouse, concession/snack bar, restrooms and cable building ahead of demolition for the community center. Staff said the buildings are scheduled for demolition as part of the community center plan and that the city has worked with BDS on prior projects.

Both awards advance the community center project into procurement and pre‑construction phases. City staff noted Barton Mallow is also investing in its local campus, which city leadership portrayed as an additional local economic commitment.

Next steps include final contract negotiation with Barton Mallow Builders, attorney review, and scheduling abatement work prior to demolition.