Committee OKs $50,000 to replace Waukesha library revolving door; item to go to council for affirmation

The Waukesha City Finance Committee on April 28 voted to approve a $50,000 budget increase to replace the revolving door at the city library, after staff told members the door’s central pillar is rotted and full replacement is the most reliable option.

Library Director Bruce Gay said the door, installed in 2005, had a panel split from its central pillar last November and multiple contractors found the pillar’s structure sufficiently deteriorated that replacing the entire assembly offers the best warranty and long-term reliability. "The easiest and the best warranty we'll get and the easiest way to do this will be to replace the entire thing," Gay said.

Alderman Mike Anderson asked whether the city should instead convert the entry to a standard swinging door. Tony, a city staff member, replied that converting to standard doors would be a larger capital project and likely cost more than replacing the revolving door, so replacing the existing door is the most cost-effective short-term approach.

Finance staff explained the requested $50,000 would come from existing cash on hand in the capital projects fund, specifically accumulated interest earnings from prior capital projects. Staff told the committee the item will go to the full common council for affirmation, because the project is not currently part of an existing capital-line project in the 2026 budget.

Chair moved to approve the amendment as presented; Alderman Anderson seconded. The committee approved the $50,000 increase by voice vote. Staff will prepare the item for presentation to the common council for formal affirmation and any required budget action.