Committee directs study of legislative office/parking options and requests renderings from Legislative Council and OMB

Representative Steeman moved, and Representative Nathie seconded, that the committee recommend Legislative Management direct Legislative Council and the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) to develop a prioritized set of legislative space needs and to explore procuring architectural designs and renderings for a potential combined parking facility and legislative office building.

John Bjornson, Legislative Council, provided background on current legislative space (about 45,380 square feet across multiple floors and committee rooms), noted authorized Legislative Council staffing for 70 employees with the office currently in the low‑to‑mid 50s, and described a short‑term plan to add 25 positions this biennium and to occupy additional space on the 15th floor pending remodel. Committee members discussed accessibility, public access to hearings, historic preservation constraints, parking needs and the timing of an RFP process.

The committee took a roll-call vote after discussion; committee staff read members' names and recorded affirmative responses. Adam (committee staff) announced the motion carried. The committee asked Legislative Council and OMB to report back during the interim and to coordinate with the chair and vice chair; members asked that staff consult facility management and incorporate legislative input in the scope.

Representative Steeman said the initial deliverable should include prioritized needs and conceptual renderings; several members urged a legislative representative be available to consult on early design work.