On January 11, the recently appointed City Hall Advisory Committee began meeting to develop a new City Hall plan for the location of the previous City Hall on 58th Avenue and 232nd Street. The nine-member committee was tasked with working with the community, along with the assistance of an architect, to determine space needs, a preliminary layout, and cost estimate. The committee will make a recommendation for the City Council to consider by June. Final design of the project would not occur until funding is secured.
As previously noted, the committee was formed as a follow up to the property tax levy lid lift passed by voters last August to pay for Interim City Hall rent for the next four years. During this time, the community will develop a plan and proposal for constructing a new City Hall.
At their first meeting, the committee selected their Chair and Vice Chair to preside at their meetings and serve as spokespersons at community events. Linda Rogers, a former Chair of the city’s Recreation and Parks Advisory Commission, was selected as Chair and H. Stan Lake, a member of the city’s former Board of Adjustment, was selected as Vice Chair.
Other business conducted included an orientation about the committee’s role, meetings and timeline, briefings on communications and the Open Public Meetings Act, Public Records Act and operating protocols.
“We had a great first meeting,” stated Community Relations Director Virginia Olsen. “The committee has a lot of passion for developing a plan for a cost-effective City Hall that allows for the future growth and needs of the community.” Councilmember Laura Sonmore greeted the committee along with Councilmember Seaun Richards. Sonmore stated, “Thank you very much for volunteering to serve on this committee. The Council really appreciates and needs your help on this project.”
Submittals from architectural and planning firms are due on January 17 and the committee will have input on the group that is selected to work with them. It is anticipated a contract for these services will be reviewed in mid-February. In the meantime, the committee will discuss space needs, tour city facilities (and possibly other City Hall buildings in the area), and review financing options for this project. The committee will meet for about five to six weeks before the architect begins working with them.
Upcoming meetings are scheduled for January 19, February 9 and 23 at 6:30 p.m. Check the city’s website, www.cityofmlt.com (Government>Other Boards & Commissions>City Hall Advisory Commission) for meeting locations and information. The committee will be touring city facilities during their early meetings. Most meetings will take place at Interim City Hall unless otherwise noted.
For more information, please email cityhall2017@ci.mlt.wa.us or call Community Relations Director Virginia Olsen at (425) 744-6206.
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