Willmar council rejects staff recommendation on city-hall elevator modernization

A motion to accept the staff-recommended bid from MEI Total Elevator Solutions for city-hall elevator modernization failed after council members raised questions about cost and timing.

City staff said the work is required because the state adopted ASME A17.3-2015 (safety code for existing elevators) and the current elevator does not meet the updated standard. The project was in the 2026 CIP; two quotes were obtained: MEI at $144,787 and Metro Elevator with Hamlin Construction at $136,918. Staff recommended MEI, noting MEI already maintains the city's elevators, offering continuity and a single-contract approach that staff said would reduce project-management risk and elevator downtime. Staff also said MEI offered payment terms that deferred payment until the end of the project.

Council members pressed staff on whether the higher bid delivered commensurate value, whether the elevator remains usable now, and what fines or enforcement would follow state flagging; staff said the city has a five-year compliance window after being flagged and that fines could apply if work is not done within that period. One council member noted the roughly $8,000 premium and asked what message the council should give to residents about spending the difference.

A motion to table the item was put forward and failed on a 3-4 vote. The subsequent motion to approve the MEI contract also failed on roll call (3 ayes, 4 nays). Council members who voted against awarding the higher bid cited cost sensitivity and uncertainty about timing given prior discussions of a new city hall; supporters cited reduced operational risk and faster turnaround with the incumbent maintainer.

The elevator remains in service; staff will follow up with additional information on fines, schedule impacts and contract options.