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HomeMy WebLinkAbout13.F.2. Future of Downtown Fire Station Building City of Shakopee / 3, r. 2. . MEMORANDUM TO: Mayor and City Council Mark McNeill, City Administrator FROM: Kris Wilson, Assistant City Administrato SUBJECT: Future of Downtown Fire Station Building DATE: July 1, 2011 Introduction The City Council is asked to consider authorizing the appropriate officials to put the downtown fire station up for sale. Background The City's current Fire Station #2 is located at 334 2 Ave. W. Built in 1955 to be the "Municipal Garage and Fire Barn," the building is approximately 10,700 square feet and sits on a 0.29 acre parcel at the corner of 2 and Scott St. It was remodeled in 1976 after the Public Works Dept. moved to Gorman St. Most recently, a new roof and some stucco work were completed in 2004. Upon the completion of the new fire station at 1001 Vierling Dr. W., the Fire Department will no longer have a need for the old station and no other City department is interested in taking over the space. While it is unclear how much the City might generate from the sale of the property, it would appear to be advantageous to try to sell the property and return it to the tax rolls rather than having it sit vacant. As long as the City continues to own the parcel, we will have to continue to clear the sidewalk of snow, perform general upkeep and maintenance, and maintain a basic level of utility service in order to prevent the deterioration of the structure. Additionally, the roof is in good condition at this time and the mechanical systems are operating, making it more attractive to potential buyers now than it might be in the future if we hold on to the property while those components age further. If Council supports the concept of trying to sell the building, staff will begin researching the details; including the process other cities have used to sell similar facilities, what sale price might be reasonable for the land and building, etc. Recommendation Staff recommends that the fire station at 334 2 Ave. W. be put up for sale, and that it be directed to research and bring back to Council recommendations for selling options. Relationship to Goals This item relates to Goal C: Maintain the City's strong financial health. Requested Action If the Council concurs, it is asked to offer a motion to authorize the City owned parcel at 334 2 Ave. W. to be put up for sale to the public, and to report back with alternatives.