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Council approves $1.7M award for ice arena roof despite concerns about condensation and higher cost
Summary
After extended discussion about condensation problems and long‑term maintenance, council awarded the ice arena roof replacement to Vanusker Construction (low bid) and approved funding adjustments to cover higher-than-budgeted project costs; consultants said the roof warranty will be 20 years but cannot guarantee elimination of condensation without additional mechanical work.
Mitchell City Council approved awarding the ice arena roof replacement project to the low bidder after a lengthy staff and consultant briefing on building envelope, insulation and condensation issues.
Staff said one bid was received from Vanusker Construction LLC for a lump sum in the neighborhood of $1.668 million; the project’s current cost estimate including scope changes and contingency is about $1.752 million, above the original $1.25 million budget. Design consultants from Design Arc and Butler Engineering described envelope defects and condensation drivers, recommended a rigid‑insulation approach for the south rink and detailed a change in flashing and joint design between the two rink frames to enable a continuous 20‑year warranty.
Council discussed the limited bidder pool, timing constraints related to seasonal use and whether rebidding next year would produce savings; staff said timeline pressures and mobilization schedules made rebid uncertain and that local installers had been notified. Fire and building officials explained that the south portion was re‑engineered toward a higher structural category to allow larger events, while the north portion’s frame cannot accept added load under existing building codes.
Several council members expressed concern about cost increases and emphasized that the roof warranty does not guarantee elimination of condensation; mechanical and ventilation work would be a separate or future scope. After discussion the council moved and approved the bid award and directed staff on funding adjustments to cover the overrun, noting some budget items had been reallocated or postponed to make room for the project.
Staff said additional maintenance and future HVAC/envelope work remain on the capital radar; council members asked staff to continue evaluating long‑term facility options and replacement costs versus repair.
