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Council pauses pump‑house demolition, asks staff to study reuse as amphitheater
Summary
After reviewing demolition bids and a recent structural check, Moraine councilors asked staff to develop low‑cost reuse and remodel options for the former pump house—potentially as an amphitheater backdrop and storage—before proceeding with demolition.
MORAINE — The City Council stopped short of approving demolition for a concrete pump house and ticket kiosk near the rec center, instead directing staff to return with cost comparisons and low‑cost reuse concepts for an amphitheater.
Staff told the council they had solicited multiple proposals to tear down the pump house and associated restroom buildings. Initial inspections, however, indicated the pump house is structurally sound and could be repurposed as a stage backdrop with backstage storage and technical space. One staff member summarized the range of demolition proposals at roughly $49,600 to $236,000 and said a mid‑range contractor could keep costs within available demo funds.
Why it matters: The structure sits adjacent to planned park amenities and could serve as a permanent stage or provide storage and backstage support for events including the Fourth of July and summer concerts. Council emphasized weighing the cost of demolition plus a new build against remodeling the existing structure.
Council discussion focused on whether the city should spend limited capital to build a new amphitheater or adapt the existing pump house. Staff said remodeling costs could be comparable to new construction once roofing and interior work are included; staff also noted the possibility of redirecting some demolition budget toward remodeling.
Council direction: Members asked Parks and Public Works staff to prepare a concise analysis comparing demolition + new construction versus remodeling costs, include lower‑cost aesthetic improvements (murals, paint), and return with nonbinding cost ranges and options for phased work before awarding any demolition contract.
Next steps: Staff will solicit brief cost estimates for a remodel concept, consult with the street department about in‑house demolition capacity for minor elements (ticket kiosk) and present options at the next council meeting so the body can decide whether to proceed with demolition or retention.
