Award Contract for the Design and Construction of Exterior Finishes to Pump House No. 3

Pump House #3 was one of the very first buildings in Ramsey's downtown, predating the Municipal Center's which was completed in 2006.  At the time of construction, the decision was purposeful to not finish the exterior, preferring to do so at a future time when public realm elements and civic architecture could be best understood, and the Pump House's finish could align with the architectural standards of today . 

Since the early 2000's, the city has had this project (finishing the facade of the Pump House) within the Capital Improvement Program.  It may be clarified that this case specifically relates to the completion of the Pump House's building exterior, and does not address the approximate 100' x 100' space around the structure which, aside from the driveway is likewise in a unfinished state. Completion of the grounds (sidewalk/concrete surfaces, turf, landscape and irrigation), will be addressed separately in 2021.

On March 23rd, 2021 City Council authorized the issuance of a Request for Proposals (RFP) for this work, advertisement occurred in separate weeks of Ramsey's official newspaper, and the following five different firms expressed interest by requesting the RFP:
~ American Liberty Construction. Inc
~ BKV Group
~ Loeffler Construction & Consulting
~ Oertel Architects, LTD
~ Rice Lake Construction Group

A single proposal was received on the due date of April 20th by American Liberty Construction, Inc. in the amount of $132,500*.  The Rockford based American Liberty Construction has a long record of successful municipal and county building construction in Minnesota, and was the Construction Manager for Ramsey's 2014 Elmcrest Building project which was completed on time, within budget, and with no significant problems.  Staff has confidence that this firm can deliver on a quality project for the completion of the Pump House, consistent with the RFP.
 

The RFP was advertised in two consecutive weeks of the city's official newspaper.

Alternatives:
One alternative to proceeding with the completion of the exterior of the Pump House #3, would be to do nothing at this time. Staff does not recommend this, as there are two finished residential buildings adjacent to the Pump House that are completed, and were required to meet certain architectural standards. Leaving the Pump House unfinished would not seem prudent, and could be viewed as incongruent with standards for private development.

Observations:
*American Liberty Construction Inc. went over and above the base requirements in responding to the RFP by including an itemized worksheet, detailing the proposed scope of work and cost.  This was particularly useful as it called attention to a note on the Wall Section (page 6 of the RFP) calling for 2" foam board insulation. This additional insulation was not intended to be a requirement of the exterior finish, and with materials and labor adds $7,072 to the project cost.  Plus, the lights and fixtures would need to be relocated to accommodate the extra 2" width which would require a electrical subcontractor at $1,250. Further, American Liberty Construction included 1,600 square feet of 'Air Barrier' not knowing if this would be a requirement as part of the Building Permit, which is a $6,075 expense.

The above costs if omitted from Pump House #3's completion would be a $14,397 deduct from the $132,500 bid proposal.

American Liberty Construction's Proposal Request Notes page also calls attention to the apparent unavailability of the specified 3/4" cedar plywood, and proposes a 'Thermory Wood Siding' instead at an Add-Alternate cost of $15,000.  As of this case preparation, Staff has not had the time to fully investigate this product but understands it is of superior appearance and durability over the 5/8" Okoume plywood in the RFP base bid.  The City of Independence recently used this heat treated ash siding on their City Hall, and Staff will attempt to have a photo and a recommendation on the potential addition of this Thermory Wood Siding at the Council meeting.

Also as of this case preparation, Public Works Staff has not had the opportunity to meet with the Building Official on the detail of proposal and the points above, but intends to do so before the Council meeting, 

Funding for the completion of Pump House #3 would be from the Municipal Water Utility.  This capital improvement project has been factored as part of each Water Utility rate study to date over the years, and accordingly, is considered budgeted for.

Staff recommends proceeding with the completion of the exterior of Pump House No. 3, awarding the contract to American Liberty Construction, Inc.  At this time, Staff is recommending City Council approve this project at a not-to-exceed amount of $147,500, understanding that the project will likely be completed at approximately +/- $132,500.

Motion to approve entering into a contract with American Liberty Construction, Inc. in an not-to-exceed amount of $147,500 for the Design and Construction of Exterior Finishes to Pump House No. 3