North Mankato advances Public Works facility design with $24.3 million preliminary estimate

Public Works Director Arnold told the City Council on Sept. 15 that the City has advanced planning for a new 68,600-square-foot Public Works facility and that current preliminary construction costs, including land purchase, design fees, permits, furniture/fixtures/equipment and contingencies, are estimated at $24.3 million.

Arnold reviewed a series of studies conducted in 2018, 2019, 2022, 2023, 2024 and 2025, and said the City selected ISG as architect and RW Carlstrom as construction manager at risk for the project. He presented three program-site options: do nothing, redevelop the current site, or construct on a proposed new site, and outlined pros and cons for each approach. Council Member Whitlock noted the project has been under consideration for at least a decade and said redevelopment of the current location could bring broader benefits to the area. Council Member Steiner urged staff to look for ways to reduce costs. Council Member Oachs expressed concern about doing both the Public Works building and a recreational facility given the overall cost.

City Administrator McCann suggested bringing in Financial Advisor Tammy Omdal to discuss cost implications. Public Works Director Arnold asked whether it was appropriate to continue with design work; the council agreed to proceed with design while maintaining scrutiny of costs.

The council did not adopt final design decisions or funding commitments at the work session; staff will return with additional analysis and cost-reduction options before any formal approvals.