Additional costs are approved for the City Administration Building Project, additional Library Project expenses, and other Dodgeville Council news

By John Dalton

In New Business, regarding the renovation of the City Administration Building (The Armory), the news wasn’t very good with respect to change orders regarding piping and electric issues, and the failure to budget accordingly for network infrastructure, camera, access control, and conference rooms connectivity with respect to video, audio, conferencing, and control.  

The $3.25 million dollar renovation now finds itself $146,108.98 over that budget.  Additionally, $459,361.35 which was budgeted for a resurfaced parking lot, improved driveway for ease of access and drop boxes, sidewalk, and storm sewer and storm water management updates, was approved to be moved into the 2026 Capital Improvement budget next spring or summer.  

Though disappointed with the additional, unexpected expenses, council members agreed it must be renovated right, as the infrastructure needs to be built properly as the City Administration Building will call this home for the next 30-50 years, or more.  

“While no one likes to see costs rise, our responsibility is to make sure this building is renovated the right way,” said Mayor Barry Hottmann. “This investment has to serve our community for generations, so it’s important we put the right systems in place now rather than cut corners and pay more later.”

The additional charges approved by the Council include an estimate of $81,523.00 from JF Ahern for repair or replacement of existing piping.  ...

(See the rest of this story in the September 11, 2025 Chronicle issue)