Hearing a proposal from R.P. Klein Construction Co. on possible improvements to the City Hall building, the the Dell Rapids City Council looked at a variation on the possible construction that would add a sturdier aluminum overlay during the regular meeting Nov. 5.

The difference in proposals ran about $6,102, while the base cost of the improvements listed on the rundown was $11,480. The improvements include door and window replacements, roof patching and hole patching on the south side of the building

City administrator Justin Weiland said that the city has been budgeting for City Hall improvements for years without ever using the money set aside.

“If we’re going to do something with this building, this is going to be the year to do it,” he said. “If we’re going to preserve this building, we need to be taking steps.” The administrator said that if the council plans on vacating the building in the near future, hesitation should be employed, but if it will be a lasting house for the city staff, investing in its improvement would be a good idea.

The council voted to accept the proposal from R.P. Klein.

**Topograhpical Survey**
Among the bills put before the city council at its most recent meeting was one for a topographical survey on land near S. Highway 77 from the Dell Rapids Economic Development Corporation.

The study, which ran $893.47, was submitted by DeWild Grant Reckert and Associates rep Trent Bruce.

Councilor Dave Sommerfeld expressed concern with the group’s submitting the survey cost to the city after the fact rather than having it approved prior.

“I think in the future they should give us a chance to budget it,” he said.

The administrator said that while the city never officially committed to paying it before the survey was performed, he thought the city should take part and support community development.

“The idea has been on their minds for quite a few months,” Weiland said.

Councilor Carrie Testerman agreed with the sentiment. “I think we need to work together with them,” she said, moving to pay the survey cost and asking that the group provide a heads-up to the council when subsequent bills will be coming.

**15th Street Resolution**
At the council’s special meeting Oct. 22, the voting body opted to approve a go-ahead on the continued improvements to 15th Street, as well as portions of Garfield and State avenues.

At the Nov. 5 meeting, the group was informed the resolution of necessity hearing on the project was officially set for Nov. 19, at 7:30 p.m., in the council chambers. All effected property owners will receive a letter explaining the breadth of the project and details on the upcoming meeting.

**Final Trail Payment**
The city approved a final pay request, effectively releasing the retainage on the project, for the recreational bike trail to Buskerud Construction.

The payment of $24,826.65 included the remaining amount owed, paid since the truncated domes on the trail had been fixed.

The total cost of the project came in at $496,532.86, while the original contract price before change orders was $474,145.

**City Shop Upgrade**
Administrator Weiland updated the council on the latest improvements to the city shop, including the building being retinned and the roof, windows and furnace replaced.