The Owatonna City Council has approved a $5.3 million project for ICS to renovate Merrill Hall, a prominent building on the West Hills Campus. Currently occupied by lessees such as the Little Theatre of Owatonna and Wee Pals Child Care Center, the renovations are a priority for the city, with the goal of providing a safe, comfortable, and energy-efficient building for years to come.

The first phase of improvements will entail a full scope of upgrades, including replacing the deteriorating roof, improving the mechanical, electrical, lighting, heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems, and adding a fire sprinkler system. Additionally, approximately $250,000 will be spent on asbestos abatement. Energy rebates through Owatonna Public Utilities will help fund the renovations, and the proposed 2024 City Council budget dedicates three percent to fund capital improvements like those at Merrill Hall.

These improvements come after a 2022 facilities analysis identified urgent deferred maintenance needs at Merrill Hall. Demolishing or selling the building were also considered, but the council ultimately decided to maintain ownership and prioritize renovations. Post-renovation, the building's utilization will be assessed to optimize its use.

Besides Merrill Hall renovations, city staff are working with ICS to develop a Long-Range Asset Plan (LRAP) that addresses infrastructure improvements and maintenance needs for over 90 City-owned buildings and structures. The LRAP will rely on input from community members, enabling the city to invest strategically in its buildings for the long-term. Community engagement opportunities will be planned as priorities are identified, enabling residents, community leaders, and city officials to shape Owatonna’s future.

Find more information and stay up-to-date on the LRAP at Owatonna.gov/imagineowatonna.