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Council approves repairs to city hall annex, awards contract to Hi‑Tech
Summary
Brainerd council voted to keep the city hall annex as a city asset and to award a contract to Hi‑Tech (via the Gordian process) to make shell repairs and systems upgrades; members debated whether doing repairs before seeking buyers narrows options.
The Brainerd City Council voted Dec. 8 to retain the city hall annex as a municipal asset and to award a contract to Hi‑Tech to complete stated improvements to the building, using the Gordian procurement process.
Councilmember Johnson moved the measure and Councilmember Chzach seconded. Supporters argued the building requires immediate work to the roof, windows and HVAC to prevent deterioration and to preserve the city’s control over a connected municipal facility. “These are repairs that need to be made to the building,” Johnson said, urging action now to avoid larger costs later.
Opponents cautioned that completing repairs may narrow market options if the council later decides to sell and suggested some buyers prefer to undertake work themselves. Councilmember Jagger said he worried that doing the repairs before settling a long‑term vision could limit flexibility; however, the motion passed on a voice vote.
Councilmembers noted potential for lease income if the city later pursues leasing and urged staff to consider short‑ and long‑term plans for using the annex once stabilized.
What’s next: Staff will direct the award per the adopted motion and proceed with the planned improvements; the council retains final say on any future sale or leasing arrangement.
