Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Library Renovation topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Council approves design services for $1.5M library renovation grant project
Summary
Detroit Lakes approved a professional design services proposal (Widseth) to prepare bid documents for a $1.5 million library renovation funded in part by a $749,999 state grant; design fees were described as hourly with a not‑to‑exceed amount of 7.5% of project cost.
The Detroit Lakes City Council approved a professional design services proposal with Widseth to advance the library renovation project into the bidding phase. Kelsey Clem told the council the overall project cost estimate is $1,500,000 and that the state grant award is $749,999. The design contract covers architectural and construction administration services and will be billed hourly with a not‑to‑exceed total equal to 7.5% of the project cost.
Clem noted that, because the library building is on the historic register, the project must complete State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) review as part of the design and bidding process. The Finance Committee reviewed the proposal at length and recommended approval; council voted to accept the design services agreement so staff can proceed to bid the project.
Why it matters: The grant and design contract move a multi‑element renovation (roof, elevator, exterior panels and ADA improvements) toward construction. Council members raised concerns about cost and scope and urged careful project management to ensure the grant dollars and design fees cover needed work.
What’s next: With the design contract approved, staff will finalize bid documents, complete SHPO review and proceed to solicit construction bids.
