In a recent government meeting, city officials received an update on the City Hall facility study, presented by John Wallenkamp of Cooney Architects. The presentation outlined three primary options for addressing the city's current and future space needs, which have been identified as critical due to increasing demands from various departments.

The first option involves renovating the existing City Hall, which currently spans over 12,000 square feet. This plan includes a proposed 2,700 square foot addition to accommodate immediate needs while modernizing the facility to improve accessibility and efficiency. Wallenkamp emphasized that this renovation would involve significant upgrades, including new mechanical and electrical systems, effectively transforming the building down to its concrete structure.

The second option considers relocating to a nearby City Center, which would require approximately 60,000 square feet for city operations and an additional 15,000 square feet for Oshkosh Media. This option presents a unique opportunity to enhance the city's presence downtown, potentially benefiting local businesses and community engagement.

The third option proposes constructing a new facility on a 17-acre site, which would also include the necessary parking infrastructure. However, concerns were raised regarding the feasibility of acquiring such a large parcel of land in a central location.

The estimated costs for these options range from $30 million to $37 million, depending on the chosen path. City officials discussed the importance of making a timely decision, as delaying the project could lead to increased costs due to inflation and rising construction expenses.

Council members expressed a desire for public engagement in the decision-making process, particularly regarding accessibility and the overall impact on the community. The urgency of addressing the city's space needs was underscored, with officials noting that the current facilities are nearing capacity for public meetings and departmental operations.

As the city moves forward, the focus will be on refining these proposals, engaging the public for feedback, and determining the best financial strategy to support the chosen option. The council aims to avoid a repeat of the current situation in the coming years, ensuring that the selected solution meets both immediate and long-term needs.