July 19, 2007 Special Meeting Minutes

A special meeting of the Ward County Commissioners was held July 19, 2007 to discuss the building and space needs.  Vice Chair Erickson called the meeting to order at 6:35 p.m. with Comms. Fjeldahl, Gruenberg and Lee in attendance. Comm. Watne was absent. Also present were Auditor/Treasurer Smestad and Architect Don Davison.

 

Comm. Gruenberg stated that the proposed downscaled building is estimated between 11.25 to 12.9 million dollars. He would like to see that price come in below 12 million and asked if that was realistic. Davison stated he believes it can be done and explained there are three factors that determine costs:  the scope of the project, the budget and cost per square foot.  Currently office space is $130-155/sq. ft.

 

Parking was discussed and the only addition to parking needs would be for social services as all of the other proposed occupants of the new building already park near the courthouse. The parking within 300 feet of the building will be determined and a possible variance may be requested.

 

Footings will be very important and in order to determine what are needed, soil tests will have to be taken.  Moved by Comm. Gruenberg, seconded by Comm. Fjeldahl to have Don Davison discuss with the structural engineer how many borings will be needed along with the approximate cost and then report back to the next meeting. Roll call: all present voted yes; motion carried.

 

Comm. Lee suggested the county open discussion with the Minot Daily News for the parking lot and look at plans for the library. Comm. Erickson will visit with the Chairman about this.

 

Comm. Gruenberg moved to adjourn, Comm. Fjeldahl seconded and meeting was adjourned at 7:50 p.m.

 

ACCEPTED AND APPROVED THIS 7^th DAY OF AUGUST, 2007

 

s/Darlene Watne, Chair

Ward County Board of Commissioners

 

ATTEST:

 

s/Devra Smestad, Auditor/Treasurer
Ward County