R2006-01 AUTHORIZING AGREEMENT - Laserfiche WebLink

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COUNCIL COMMUNICATION FORM Engineering & Infrastructure Memorandum NO. 2006 - 02 January 5, 2006 I TO: Honorable Mayor Osborne and City Council �i FROM: Steve Garm ity Manager !i Stephen Swa on, P.E.,Director of Engineering & Infrastructure � SUBJECT: City Council Chamber Remodel SUMMARY RECOMMENDATION: It is recommended by City staff that the City Council approve the attached resolution approving an agreement with BLDD Architects, Inc., for the City Council Chamber Remodel Study and authorizing the Mayor to execute and the City Clerk to attest the agreement. BACKGROUND: The City of Decatur's City Council Chamber has undergone minimal upgrades or modifications since it was originally built and furnished in 1980. In addition to serving as the City Council Chamber this facility also serves as the meeting room for the City Planning Commission, a meeting or training room for City employees and, on occasion, to host small receptions or ceremonies. It has become outmoded through the advancement of modern audiovisual and computer technology. In addition, the facility is in need of modifications to better address current ADA access and accommodation requirements. Frequent criticism is made about the quality or ability to view or hear the business being conducted by the City Council in the Chamber. This criticism is made by those watching televised broadcasts at home and by those in the live audience including the public, City Council members and City staff. It is a common situation that the Council members must leave the Council dais to view overhead presentations as opposed to remaining in their seats. The computer technology issues relate to the ability to equip the Chamber far the use of individual computers by members of the City Council, City Clerk, City Manager and Legal Counsel. It has been determined that additional electrical outlets must be installed to ensure that computers and other related equipment can be powered by electrical feeds and not rely on battery power. In addition to the technology issues, the existing interior furnishings which are original to the Chamber have become outdated and show 25 years of use. There is a need to replace the existing carpet, seats and lighting as well the color scheme of the Chamber. These are considered essential towards addressing acoustic and audiovisual needs of the Chamber.