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Council asks staff for updated estimates after annex building repair debate
Summary
Council reviewed prioritized annex-building repairs with $160,000 remaining and requested updated, itemized cost estimates for high-priority items (HVAC, windows, structural joists, electrical) after members said the 2019 facility study is outdated.
City Council discussed capital improvements for the annex building and asked staff to return with updated, itemized cost estimates.
Chairman Tad Ericson said about $160,000 remains in annex funds and presented staff's list of priorities including HVAC work, replacement of wooden exterior windows, second-floor structural joist repairs and electrical upgrades. Members noted the underlying facility study is from 2019 and that the numbers in the report may no longer be reliable.
Council and staff quoted figures from the 2019 study (windows about $22,000; joists about $25,000; HVAC cited in the study near $16,000) but several speakers warned that more current pricing could be materially higher. One staff comment in the meeting noted a more recent rough HVAC estimate in the $60,000–$80,000 range, while staff repeatedly cautioned that the study's numbers should not be relied on without fresh quotes.
Council members divided on the approach: some said HVAC should be addressed immediately to prevent moisture damage to historic fabric; others warned that making piecemeal repairs without a larger end game could lock the city into ongoing costs. Councilman Jagger said he fears incremental spending will obligate the city to long-term investment without a clear final decision; Councilman Johnson and others urged staff to prepare firm estimates and a recommendation on whether to keep, repurpose, lease or sell the building.
On a motion by Chzach (second Stunick), council directed staff to return with more definitive cost estimates for the high-priority items and to present them at a later meeting or workshop. Members noted that preliminary pricing and ADA/accessibility implications should be part of the staff return.
