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Prairie View council tables temporary modular office plan amid cost and space debate
Summary
Council discussed leasing modular office space (options priced about $2,000–$2,800 per month, 13‑month option estimated at roughly $50,000–$70,000) to address immediate staff workspace shortages, but tabled the item so staff and the EDC can coordinate funding and alternatives during the budget process.
The Prairie View City Council on June 8 debated a request to lease temporary modular office facilities to relieve overcrowding in city offices and to provide space for staff while longer‑term facilities (including a proposed police station) are pursued.
City staff described two options: a roughly 1,536‑square‑foot unit and a roughly 2,000‑square‑foot unit. Staff said the larger option was most feasible; monthly charges were discussed in the $2,000–$2,800 range and the packet cited a 13‑month estimate that staff and council approximated at about $50,000 (a larger configuration rose toward $70,000).
Acting City Manager Kilpatrick and the mayor argued the space was needed because the city currently has vacant positions but no available offices to house new hires, and that interns and clerks had no dedicated workspace. Several council members argued the item should be handled in the upcoming budget process rather than by an interim contract, questioned whether the Economic Development Corporation might absorb some cost, and pressed staff for the study that informed the need.
After extensive discussion about immediate needs, funding sources and the impact on ongoing public‑works and housing budgets, council voted to table the modular building agreement until the EDC and council can confer and provide a recommendation.
Key figures and next steps: staff cited monthly rental scenarios ($2,000 and $2,800) and a 13‑month example in the packet; council directed staff to coordinate with the EDC and consider the expense in the coming budget review.
