TO: Mayor Thomas J. Weisner
FROM: Rena Church, Director Curator, Aurora Public Art Commission
DATE: 09-06-13
SUBJECT: title
Resolution Authorizing the Execution of a Proposal From Arris Architects + Planners, PC of Plainfield, Illinois for Architectural Services for the Interior Restoration of the GAR in the Amount Not to Exceed $75,000
body
PURPOSE:
The City of Aurora has recognized the need to stabilize, reconstruct and renovate the GAR building. The intended end use of the renovated structure is to provide a museum space for the memorialization of Aurora's Civil War veterans and those of other 19th and 20th century conflicts. Since 1996, the city has contracted with Arris Architects + Planners, PC, of Plainfield to develop and oversee multiple phases of the restoration project that stabilize, preserve, and restore the memorial building.
BACKGROUND:
Between 1998 and 2008, multiple phases of structural stabilization and rehabilitation work have been completed at both the exterior and interior of the GAR building.
In 2008 the city obtained three grants to help fund the effort: a State of Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) grant of $100,000; A Partners In Preservation/American Express grant of $55,000, and a Kane County Riverboat Fund Grant of $50,000.
In 2010 the city received a grant of $250,000 from the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) to begin restoration of the interior. Simultaneously, the city funded limited exterior restoration work. Phase 1 Work of the interior restoration was completed in December of 2012; however, project funding did not permit the building to be completed to a functional state.
DISCUSSION:
There are sufficient funds budgeted for this project in account 231-1361-465-7342. The vendor does not have any outstanding debt with the City. This is a sole source professional service. Arris Architects + Planners, PC is highly familiar with the status of the completed work as well as the overall work yet to be completed. They have been involved with multiple phases of the GAR project.
IMPACT STATEMENT:
It will be very helpful to have drawings for the final phase of the GAR project. The architectural plans will help determine more accurate cost estimates and the plans can be used to seek additional grant opportunities
RECOMMENDATIONS:
That the Finance Committee recommends approval of the Agreement for Professional Services with Arris Architects + Planners, PC in the amount of $71,660.00 with a contingency not to exceed $75,000.
cc: Alderman O'Connor, Chairman
Alderman Schuler
Alderman Mervine
Alderman Peters, Alternate