Fairfield to Upgrade Municipal Building

Architects show plans for $2.4M renovation

as reported by the Cincinnati Enquirer

FAIRFIELD - The city plans to pump more than $2.4 million into renovating its U-shaped municipal building to extend the life of the structure while making it easier to navigate.

The project will include improved security, and new entrances for the economic development services and building and engineering divisions, according to plans outlined Monday by architects Rick Tripp and David Sweeney with Michael Schuster Associates Inc.

Bids will be sought this year, with the project expected to be complete by December 2008. No decision has been made about where city offices may relocate during renovation.

Interior renovations are planned for council chambers, Finance, Economic Development and the Building/Engineering departments. The building will also get a new roof, new front columns and other exterior treatments to reduce long-term maintenance expenses.

"I like the plan," said Councilman Steve Miller. "It's needed. I like to see the enhanced safety features. ... I don't like the fact that people can waltz in and nobody knows."

Under the plan, about 15 seats would be added to council chambers. The solid wall at the chamber entrance would be replaced with a half-glass wall. The chambers also would get a new video presentation screen.

Councilman Tim Meyers said he was concerned about the cost.

"We're going to spend a lot of money and we're only going to get 10-15 additional seats," Meyers said.

A receptionist station would be relocated in front of council chambers. A conference room would be relocated to the front of the building that could accommodate 42 visitors and space for 12 at a table.

That room also could hold spectators at council meetings that draw large crowds.
"We could also allow the community to use the conference room," said Councilman Mitch Rhodus. "That's another real good use of the room."