Benton County Unveils Plans for $24.2 Million New Government Center!

Dewey Street, Foley, MN, USA - Benton County is gearing up for a major transformation as commissioners have given the green light for a new government center. After careful consideration and review, the board approved the lowest bid of $24.2 million—a figure that notably beats the initial estimated cost of $29.7 million by over $5 million. This decision comes on the heels of a petition signed by around 1,900 local voters, pushing for the project to be brought to a public vote. However, the commissioners chose to take matters into their own hands, deciding to move forward with the construction rather than delay the project with a ballot initiative, as reported by WJON.

The existing government center is showing its age, being a mix of buildings constructed between 1901 and 1981. Issues like aging mechanical systems, exterior decay, and accessibility challenges make it less than ideal for today’s needs. It’s no surprise, then, that the estimated cost to upgrade the current buildings was pegged at roughly $23 million—a hefty sum without significantly expanding the facilities. In contrast, the new government center promises to provide a fresh start with advanced technology, enhanced space for the county board, and even a dedicated area with drive-thru capabilities for the DMV. The new facility will be built on Dewey Street in Foley, on land that once housed the Foley High School, as detailed by Benton County.

Financing the Future

Financing this ambitious project involves securing funds through lease revenue debt, utilizing the county’s Housing and Redevelopment Authority (HRA) for a 20-year term. Benton County is also actively seeking a sales tax exemption on construction materials from the state, which could save approximately $320,000 on overall project costs. By relying on these alternative financing strategies, officials are steering clear of the traditional general obligation bonds, which might have complicated the funding landscape.

This approach mirrors broader trends in how public infrastructure projects are financed. According to an overview from the Government Finance Officers Association, tax-exempt bonds and other financing options play a crucial role in managing costs for state and local governments. The collaboration with the Public Finance Network helps ensure that these options remain viable, promoting sustainable investments in infrastructure like the new government center.

The Road Ahead

Construction is expected to kick off later this month in July 2024, with completion forecasted for late fall 2026. As the county embarks on this significant development, open houses and facility tours are being scheduled to keep the public informed. 3D images of the new government center have already been prepared to give citizens a glimpse of what to expect.

With this new government center, Benton County looks poised to move forward into a more efficient future. The approval marks a pivotal step away from the limitations of old facilities, aiming to provide better service and accessibility for all county residents. Let’s keep our fingers crossed and watch as this ambitious project comes to life!