Hermantown council approves arena furniture, change orders and a large pay request as construction proceeds

The Hermantown City Council on Monday approved multiple contract items tied to the North Star Ford Arena project, including a $67,511.22 furniture purchase, $36,725.60 in change orders and pay request number 15 for $967,668.73.

Mister Mulder, who briefed the council, said the council toured the arena earlier and that the project is on schedule and nearly on budget; staff expect substantial completion in the September'November timeframe and targeted readiness by Jan. 1. "We are on schedule and really close to on budget," Mulder said.

The council awarded the furniture contract to Innovative Office Solutions for $67,511.22; staff said the arena budgeted $75,000 for furniture and that the supplier is local and will donate pucks to the youth hockey association. Councilors questioned purchasing furniture that could be considered amenities for varsity sports, with one councilor saying the city should avoid buying items the school district might otherwise provide. Mulder replied the furniture purchase is within the approved budget.

Council also approved change orders totaling $36,725.60 to cover work including replacement of a louver and relief fan in the existing rink, additional rink lighting, and added electrical outlets in varsity locker rooms. Staff said the school district agreed to reimburse the city for the relief fan replacement.

Finally, the council approved pay request number 15 to Kraus Anderson Construction Company for $967,668.73 for work completed in August on the arena project.

The council's approvals keep the arena project moving toward its next construction milestones; staff said physical construction bids for remaining work will be issued and that further contract awards and payments will return to council for authorization.