Spending $40K on Consultant Sparks Debate on Council
While city-owned facilities are not in a state of disrepair as those reviewed in the school district, aldermen approved hiring a firm to determine needs and efficiencies, despite some feeling it's an expense that can wait.
A proposal to spend $40,000 to hire a consultant to review all city-owned buildings came under fire from some Common Council members Tuesday night, but was ultimately approved after an extended debate. Jeff Muenkel, the city's director of development, recommended hiring Zimmerman Architectural Studios to conduct a study of the library, City Hall, and departmental buildings, like parks and public works. The firm would survey staff and others who those buildings to determine needs, and how best each space could be utilized. Potential recommendations may include construction of new facilities, but could also point out more efficient use of the spaces, which would save the city money in the long run. The 2012 budget estimated the cost of the …
