News
Downtown site considered for library, law enforcement
11/12/2009
Fergus Falls leaders have identified a section of land across from City Hall as a possible site for a new library or law enforcement center.
Bounded by Washington and Junius avenues, the property is currently home to the Alternative Learning Center and the Court Complex building. A north-south alley separates the property from Bethlehem Lutheran Church and Augustana Apartments.
At a meeting last week, a handful of city officials saw architectural designs putting the library or the law enforcement center on the Washington Avenue property. Those designs, prepared by architects with Vetter Johnson Architects and Schultz and Associates, will be available to city council members during a work session Monday.
The proposed property is a great location from a law enforcement perspective, said Chief of Public Safety Tim Brennan, who participated in last week’s meeting. A new law enforcement center between Washington and Junius would put the courthouse, the jail and City Hall within walking distance, he said. The site’s central location within the city is also a plus for officers responding to calls.
Library Director Walt Dunlap said the property’s central location is also a good fit for a public library, “but we think the conclusion will be that there just isn’t enough parking.”
Another potential downside is the cost, which officials are expected to release next week.
“It’s a very prime piece of property so it’s not an inexpensive piece of property,” Brennan said.
The property between Washington and Junius has several different owners, some of whom have indicated a willingness to sell, said City Administrator Mark Sievert.
The Fergus Falls School District, which is a lessee, intends to move the Alternative Learning Center and Community Education offices to the Roosevelt building by fall 2010, according to Mark Masten, the district’s business manager.
Monday’s work session on the library and law enforcement projects is scheduled for 4 p.m. in Council Chambers. According to Sievert, architects will give a Power Point presentation showing some of the design and location options discussed so far.
For the library, this includes expanding at the current site or building across from City Hall. Law enforcement options include renovating Eisenhower Elementary, remodeling the Fergus Falls Public Library or building new across from City Hall.
By Lauren Radomski The Daily Journal
