01-22-2003 - Laserfiche WebLink

Commission Minutes--January 22, 2003 2553 Mr. Montplaisir said bids were opened last week for demolition of the jail and sheriffs residence. The demolition, electrical and mechanical work, replacement of the generator and other items included as part of the demolition and getting ready for reconstruction total approximately $500,000.00. The bid award was removed from yesterday's commission agenda pending today's visit from the State Historical Society. Mr. Hoganson talked about the county's early planning process, which began in about 1999, and consisted of several committees involving people from the community and the courthouse neighborhood. He explained the three options which the county considered in 2001 prior to deciding on Option C, which includes demolishing both the former jail and sheriff's residence. This option would cost an estimated $1 million less than the cost of refurbishing and reusing the existing structures for offices or courtrooms. Mr. Paaverud commented that the county has done a tremendous amount of planning, and he said the Cass County Courthouse is certainly a landmark. Mr. Wagner said the county has spent a considerable amount of resources in keeping this campus viable. Mr. Paaverud asked if Federal funds would be used in the project, and Mrs. Johnson said they would not. In response to a question from Mr. Paaverud on the timeline for building a replacement facility, Mr. Montplaisir said it would depend upon the eventual design of the structure and the availability of funds. Mr. Paaverud said he would like to see the mitigation plan and details of the items being considered for salvage from the former jail and sheriff's residence. Ms. Swenson will provide examples of what has been done in the past for recording the history of a building before it is torn down. Mr. Paaverud said they will digest all of the information provided today and will expedite a response after formulating some suggestions and recommendations on the project. PUBLIC COMMENT Mr. Wagner invited public opinion from individual citizens in the audience. Comments were received from Jens Tennefos, John Strand, Rita Traynor and Jeannette Stanton opposing demolition of the old jail and sheriff's residence. Mr. Strand suggested "mothballing the buildings" until a future use is determined, rather than being in a hurry to tear them down. He asked commissioners to have an open mind and listen to the concerns of citizens. ADJOURNMENT In closing, Mr. Wagner thanked the representatives of the State Historical Society for touring the buildings and meeting with commissioners today. He also thanked the citizens for attending. The meeting adjourned at 3:20 PM. ATTEST: [/libhael M°ntplaisir -' Auditor Cass County, North Dakota APPROVED: Cass County Board of Commissioners