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Ramsey stated $3.6 million seems like a lot of money because he thought it was supposed to cost <br /> $2 million. <br /> Councilmember Elvig stated he remembered a cost of $2.2 million. He commented on the need <br /> to think forward when considering a building and to anticipate fire station needs in the future. <br /> Councilmember Elvig felt there may be fire station drawings already in existence that may be <br /> more effective and accommodate the City's needs. He pointed out that architects like to set a <br /> budget they can comfortably build to so his concern is that this proposal may be over built. <br /> Rather, he suggested considering a building for today's needs that can be added onto without <br /> appearing "hodgepodge." <br /> Councilmember Backous agreed with those concerns and that building for the future is wise but <br /> a phased approach may be better. He noted the issue tonight is a land swap and building design <br /> can be discussed later. <br /> Mayor Ramsey indicated he was surprised the land was only worth $450,000 after the building <br /> was torn down and asked why the City would consider selling if only worth that much. He <br /> raised the option of adding onto the old police station to make a new fire station, noting the <br /> location lines up and has geothermal. <br /> Fire Chief Kapler indicated the geothermal system is not working well. <br /> Mayor Ramsey noted the old police station has space for training and beds and an apparatus bay <br /> could be added. <br /> Councilmember Strom/nen stated she also has questions on the appraisal. She asked if the <br /> appropriate question for the Council to weigh in on tonight is whether to host discussion with the <br /> other landowner. She suggested a second topic would be the building plans for the fire station. <br /> City Administrator Ulrich stated it appears the Council would like to see information on a "bare <br /> bones" fire station that costs $2.5 million with phases for the future. He indicated there are <br /> options with the old fire station that staff could bring back at the same time as well as the studies <br /> previously conducted. <br /> Councilmember Strommen supported an honest needs assessment to assure the Council is <br /> making smart decisions. She asked what "bare bones" options would mean and indicated a <br /> preference to not set the decision solely on the price. <br /> Councilmember Elvig reviewed the property size and past valuations. He stated the 14 acres <br /> may have been worth $12 -14 million five years ago when considered for multifamily so he does <br /> not understand why the valuation today would be as low as $450,000. He asked if the City <br /> should wait to sell until the land values come up. <br /> Fire Chief Kapler noted that per Council direction, staff was told this property would be used for <br /> business, not for multi - family. He agreed that an apartment use would drive up the property <br /> value. <br /> City Council Work Session / November 7, 2011 <br /> Page 9 of 10 <br />