Lets’s face it, this isn’t about space needs, this is about rewarding contractors, architects and consultants with new jobs to do. Buying existing property that just needs some new carpet doesn’t require the millions in consulting fees;
While it wouldn’t be move-in ready for the city, Merrow’s Realtor Dennis Breske said a full restoration “down to the bones†could be completed for an estimated $4 to $5 million.
“Even if it’s $70 per square foot for all 76,000 square feet, that’s $5.3 million,†said Breske, who used to be part owner of the 300 Building. “That’s $11,320,000 (for purchase and remodel), which is still a savings … of almost $14 million.â€
Of course the city has all kinds of excuses;
Officials at City Hall, though, say the 300 Building was considered before deciding to build new. Sue Quanbeck Etten, Central Services Director for the city who’s led the administrative office building project for Mayor Huether, said the floor plan, a limited amount of parking and the sheer number of tenants leasing space in the building kept the 300 Building from being seriously considered when other space solutions were being vetted in 2013 and 2014.
“It wasn’t even something we considered because that building didn’t meet any of the criteria that we needed,†she said, although admitting the idea of purchasing the building out right wasn’t entertained – only leasing space.
So which is it? You considered it or not?
Tech and software startups renovate old warehouses and office buildings into their business philosophy and culture. There’s lots of space and parking. I’d like to think the city is bypassing this approach in favor of not restricting private innovation. Not true because they’re building hotels that prevent renowned franchises from expanding here.
How about build a new jail for the county and renovate the old jail for city admin? I like the idea of putting city corruption in jail without them realizing so. Raise my water rates if they can be put where they belong.
The city should examine all options before committing to building a new city administration building. In addition to the 300 Building, there are other options around the city that could work.
Once again, South DaCola’s analysis is right on the mark. The plan for a new building would reward those in the construction industry with our tax dollars.
One of the best questions asked today…$6 mil and some fix up money vs $20+ mil and long term interest payments. Sounds to me that there are reserve dollars to cover this purchase with out floating bonds.
Looks like the taxpayers are in favor of it by about 85% by an unofficial Argus poll.
That’s even with his minions at city hall trying to sway the poll.
Hopefully the new council members see how fed up the citizens are of the debt load huether and his lackeys are trying to stick us with.
If you change the name from 300 to Huether Hall it will pass with flying colors.
So what happened to all the excellant parking spaces that were available downtown when they wanted to build the event center down there?
With the difference in cost, it is completely unacceptable that our leaders are not pushing for this option. Shameful.