FARGO (KFGO-AM) - As the price tag goes up for a new Fargo City Hall, City Commissioner Dave Piepkorn says it may be time to let voters decide whether to proceed.
The project was originally pegged at $15 million when planning started more than a year ago. But a recent estimate put the cost at more than $21 million, not including costs for underground parking, site preparation and other costs.
Piepkorn told KFGO's Mike McFeely the final cost could be closer to $30 million. He said that's a major capital expenditure and "a legit thing to put on the ballot, especially when we have a vote coming up in April."
Mayor Tim Mahoney said the building committee is fiscally responsible and is not building a "Taj Mahal.". He said there's a way to pay for the project and that this is not typically something that would go to a public vote, adding .
Mayoral candidate Brad Wimmer, who was part of the early planning when he was a city commissioner agrees. He said the numbers need to add up but he says he would not favor a public vote. Such a vote would require a 60% majority to pass.
The new government center will replace the City Hall, built in the 1960's that's cramped and deteriorating. Bids are expected to be let soon, with construction to start this spring, and completion in 2016.