09-16-2002 - Laserfiche WebLink

Commission Minutes--September 16, 2002 2510 Crystal Dueker supports the 24-month moratorium or tabling the decision until the new __ board members take office after the election this fall. Nancy Shappell said she has been a resident for six years, and there are very few unique places in Fargo. She said she appreciates the time being allowed for this group to give their input. Sharon Wermedahl said this group started a low budget and low energy petition drive last week, and there are over 150 signatures of people who want to see these buildings given due consideration and save them for the future. After asking for other comments from the audience, Mr. Wieland invited discussion among commissioners. Mr. Meyer said the decision was made about one year ago to demolish the former jail and sheriffs residence, after the commission made numerous attempts to generate interest in the buildings and looked at possible re-use of the facility. He has not changed his opinion that the buildings should be demolished. Mr. Strand said his group does not have a solution for the use of the buildings either, however, they are asking for more time so creative thinking and solutions can surface. He referenced a letter from Douglas Burgum, who is refurbishing the former Norihern School Supply building in downtown Fargo. ,..... Mr. Wieiand said the commission went through the process of trying to determine whether the buildings could be remodeled or modified for future county use. Some decisions were made and tax dollars have been expended as a result of studying the issue. He said the citizens' group seems to believe the buildings are in good condition, however, a person could kick a hole in the crumbling foundation. Mr. Strand said the building is being used now for prisoner holding; and the boiler for the courthouse. which is located in the basement of the jail, was certified as useable for one more year. Mr. Wieland said a small portion of the old jail is being used to hold prisoners who are awaiting a court appearance. Mr. Strand felt there was a discrepancy in the mechanical and engineering estimates presented to the board when the decision was made to demolish the old jail and sheriffs residence. Mr. Wagner explained the cost estimates, and he said the Heyer Engineering repori that Mr. Strand referenced was a visual inspection of the building. It did not include core samples. Mr. Wagner also said there would be a problem with the load structure, and the building wouid need a new foundation before it could be modified in any way. The county commission followed a public process in May of 2001, according to Mr. Wagner, trying to bring some attention and some interest to the situation. All county department heads were included in discussions, as well as neighboring property owners. Also, the commission advertised the former sheriffs residence to be moved, and the county would contribute the cost of demolition toward moving the building. r-- Birch Burdick, State's Attorney, said he looked at two issues when he received a copy of the resolution. The first issue is whether this board could bind a successor commission; and secondly, he reviewed the Home Rule Charter process on introducing resolutions.