The City Council Chambers at the West Hills Campus has completed its renovations, successfully meeting the goals of the project and improving the facility's overall function. The updated space was first utilized by the City Council on November 7, 2023.

A ribbon cutting event to mark the completion of the project is scheduled for November 21 at 4:30 p.m., where the community members are invited to attend and celebrate the accomplishment.

The decision to renovate the Council Chambers was made last year. The area, which was initially used as an auditorium for the State Public School, underwent modifications in the 1970s when the City took ownership of the building. The renovation project had several goals, including providing an accessible entry point and restrooms compliant with the American Disability Act (ADA), live broadcasting capabilities for public meetings, improved HVAC system, enhanced safety, and a flexible multi-purpose space for public meetings and events.

Discussions regarding the renovations began in 2017 amongst City Council members and staff. The project was funded with $2.1 million in capital funds earmarked by the City, while an additional $900,000 was allocated through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA). CRW Architecture & Design Group was chosen to plan the project in 2021, with Ebert Construction taking on the contractor role in 2022. The construction, which began in April, involved multiple Owatonna businesses.

The West Hills Commission worked closely with the State Historical Preservation Office during the planning and renovation phases, ensuring the preservation of original architectural elements. Additionally, a historical display is under development for the Chambers.

City Council President Greg Schultz emphasized the Council's dedication to being responsible caretakers of taxpayer investments in historic buildings. He said, "We need to determine how to use these spaces so they serve the community effectively." The investment in the Council Chambers renovation is expected to serve the community for at least 50 years.