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Committee backs design contract and contractor selection for Brainerd fire station renovation
Summary
The committee recommended a $380,000 design services contract and the selection of North Construction as the best-fit general contractor for the planned renovation of the fire station at 23 Laurel Street. The project would add about 4,200 sq ft to the first floor and a roughly 2,600 sq ft mezzanine; estimated construction budget noted at about $5.5 million.
Brainerd City committee members voted to forward staff’s recommendation to the council to proceed with design services and to select a general contractor for a major renovation of the fire station at 23 Laurel Street.
Fire Chief Holmes told the committee the original building dates to 1983–84 and that the current proposal incorporates planning work done in 2025, conditional‑use and variance approvals and a goal of improving firefighter health and recruitment. The renovation adds roughly 4,200 square feet to the first floor (apparatus, storage and office) and a mechanical mezzanine of about 2,600 square feet for storage and fitness space. Holmes said the project emphasizes separating “dirty” and “clean” areas, improved ventilation and dedicated decontamination and turnout gear storage.
Chief Holmes said the design services proposal is $380,000; councilmembers were told the current construction budget estimate is about $5.5 million. An interview panel that included the chief, the city engineer Jesse Dean, BPU Director Sandy and Mike England (WIDSH) evaluated local contractors and recommended North Construction as the best fit. Procurement will use the Gordian cooperative pricing process with the selected contractor to establish a firm project price.
Councilmembers asked about the condition of the original structure and the scope of future work; Holmes said the project includes new HVAC, mechanical, electrical and plumbing, and that the east side of the building would be demolished and rebuilt. The committee voted to send staff’s recommendation to council for approval; the motion carried on voice vote.
