10.b Scandia Heritage Alliance Project Update Staff Report
Date of Meeting: May 20, 2025
For: Honorable Mayor and Council
From: Kyle Morell, City Administrator
Subject: Scandia Heritage Alliance – Site Plan Update
Susan Rodsjo and John Herman of the Scandia Heritage Alliance (SHA) will attend the meeting
to update the Council on the progress of the Water Tower Barn project.
I have attached the DEED Pre-Design Documentation and the Special Appropriation Application
for Construction Projects, both documents prepared by the SHA for presentation to the City
and DEED.
Attachments:
DEED Pre-Design Documentation
Special Appropriation Application for Construction Projects
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Water Tower Barn Scandia Arts & Heritage Center
Pre-Design Documentation
May 5, 2025
Submitted by:
City of Scandia, Minnesota, and
Scandia Heritage Alliance
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Certification
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Exhibit 1
Historical Photograph of Water Tower Barn
Rendering of Reconstructed Water Tower Barn
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TABLE OF CONTENTS TITLE PAGE .............................................................................................................................................. 1
CERTIFICATION ...................................................................................................................................... 2
EXHIBIT 1, HISTORICAL PHOTO AND RECONSTRUCTION IMAGE ............................................. 3
TABLE OF CONTENTS ............................................................................................................................ 4
INTRODUCTION ...................................................................................................................................... 5
EXHIBIT 2, APPROPRIATION STATUTE ............................................................................................. 7
EXHIBIT 3, CITY APPROVED SITE PLAN ........................................................................................... 8
EXHIBIT 4, LOCATION MAP ............................................................................................................... 10
EXHIBIT 5, SCHEMATIC DRAWINGS AND PLANS ......................................................................... 11
PREDESIGN PURPOSE LIST/RESPONSES…………………………………………………………..20
SECTION 1 PREDESIGN SUMMARY….............................................................................................. 21
SECTION 2 BASIS FOR NEED – PROJECT BACKGROUND NARRATIVE ................................... 25
SECTION 3 AGENCY/ORGANIZATION PLANNING (N/A, not a State project) ............................... 29
SECTION 4 PROJECT DESCRIPTION ................................................................................................. 29
SECTION 5 SITE ANALYSIS AND SELECTION ...................................................................................... 36
SECTION 6 FINANCIAL INFORMATION ........................................................................................... 40
SECTION 7 SCHEDULE INFORMATION ........................................................................................... 46
PREDESIGN CHECKLIST ................................................................................................. See Appendix 8
LIST OF APPENDICES ........................................................................................................................... 49
Appendices follow numbered pages
Appendix 1 Site Selection Study Appendix 2 Historic Building Analysis Appendix 3 Audience Analysis Appendix 4 Barn CAD Drawings of salvaged elements
Appendix 5 Barn Material Condition Information Appendix 6a Costs estimates by contractor Appendix 6b Total Development Cost estimates by SHA Appendix 7 Amphitheater Design Participants Appendix 8 Predesign Checklist
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INTRODUCTION
This Predesign Manual is submitted by the City of Scandia (the “City”) and Scandia Heritage Alliance (“SHA”) for the Water Tower Barn Scandia Arts and Heritage Center project (the “Project”). This Project was funded by the 2023 Minnesota Legislature from State General Fund monies in the amount of $2,200,000, See Exhibit 2, Minnesota Laws, 2023, Ch. 73, Art. 2, Sec. 9, Subd. 7.
The Project has three principal elements, See Exhibit 3, City Approved Site Plan :
• Reconstruction of the historic Scandia Water Tower Barn using salvaged materials (donated to SHA) in a historically appropriate manner, See Exhibit 1 for Historical Photo of Water
Tower Barn and Re-erection Image;
• Site improvements including a rain garden and stormwater retention pond, children’s splash pad, site grading, parking, trail connections, and site landscaping; and
• An outdoor amphitheater with a capacity of approximately 250 persons for musical,
theatrical, and other similar performances.
And it is a critical link in a third element:
• A connection to public trail infrastructure (wetland trail loop and Gateway State Trail).
The Project is located in the Scandia Community Commons in the City center. The site will be leased by the City to SHA for the purposes of operating the “governmental programs” and will be operated by SHA or an affiliated special purpose entity. Other funding (from the Environmental Trust Fund, Legislative Citizen’s Commission on Minnesota Resources’ [LCCMR], 2025 allocation recommendation) is anticipated this legislative session to provide a wetland interpretive trail and
boardwalk across the site’s largest wetland to connect the Project to the nearby Scandia City Hall and Community Center and provide a destination for the William O’Brien State Park to Scandia Gateway Trail extension to be built in 20261. See Exhibit 4, Location Map, showing site and proposed trail linkages. Note, the wetland trail is a City project and not part of the Project.
The Project concept grew out of the efforts of the community-based SHA to provide a destination facility at the terminus of the Gateway State Trail in Scandia and to create a synergy with the Gammelgården Museum, a statewide attraction celebrating the Swedish immigrant experience. After City approval, it was proposed for State capital investment and recommended by the Governor and approved by the Legislature in 2023.
The Project appropriation does not require a non-state match. SHA has raised sufficient non-State funds and received contributed professional services and materials and other services to meet the “build to completion” requirement of the appropriation. The Project schedule calls for design work to be completed in spring 2025, final bidding in May and June, and construction to commence in late
Summer or Fall 2025.
The major Project elements were identified in various City plans before the legislative request for
1 The Project includes a segment of the wetland trail. This segment will be built using privately raised funds as part of the local match for the wetland trail. It will be constructed regardless of the timing of the wetland trail. The wetland trail includes a boardwalk link between the Scandia Community Center and City Hall and the Project, which also provides a second access to City parking at the City Hall.
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funding was made: the amphitheater in the Open Space Plan, wetland preservation and interpretation in the Open Space Plan and multiple City ordinances, preservation of the City’s historic character (supported by reconstruction of the Water Tower Barn) in the Land Use Plan, and connection with
the State Gateway Trail connection to William O’Brien State Park in multiple City actions on the Gateway extension. Because of this, some elements of normal Predesign are not fully applicable. The Project site plan, see Exhibit 3, has been approved by the City of Scandia under the Redevelopment Agreement, and the City has acted to zone the property Planned Unit Development (“PUD”) to allow the proposed Project uses. As part of the PUD approval, the City
has approved all needed code changes for the use. Normal City Planning approvals are not anticipated to raise any issues. The Project has also been positively reviewed by Washington County Public Works for road/driveway access and by the Washington County Conservation District and the local Watershed District for beneficial wetland and rain garden impacts. These approvals and consultations are a critical part of the predesign process and were undertaken before
the legislative request was submitted. Attached as Exhibit 4 are select schematic plans for reviewer information. Note, these plans are now being modified in the value engineering process and in response to Project bidding. Insights from this Predesign review will be considered as well.
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Exhibit 2
Funding Legislation
Laws, 2023, Minnesota Laws, 2023, Ch. 72, Art. 2, §9, Subd. 7
Subd. 7.
Scandia; Water Tower Barn Arts and Heritage Center
$2,200,000
For a grant to the city of Scandia to predesign, design, construct, furnish, and equip the Scandia Water Tower Barn Arts and Heritage Center in the city of Scandia. This appropriation is for the reconstruction and rehabilitation of the historic Scandia water tower barn for reuse as a regional
arts and heritage center, along with construction of an amphitheater and site improvements. This facility will be located adjacent to the Gammelgarden Museum and will complement the telling of the important story of the state's original Swedish immigrant community. The water tower barn is the state's only remaining water tower barn tank house and is eligible for listing on the National
Register of Historic Places for its unique engineering significance and the role that tank house
facilities played in the evolution from the agrarian to the early 20th century mercantile economy.
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Exhibit 3
Site Plan
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Exhibit 4
Location Map
Olinda Trail
PROJECT SITE
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Exhibit 5
Preliminary Schematic Drawings
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PREDESIGN PURPOSE LIST AND RESPONSES: This predesign document has been prepared for the following purposes, recognizing the essential nature of the Project was determined and approved in the specific Legislative authorization:
ï Identifying all project needs and costs to serve as the basis for final design, consistent with the approved funding and non-state funds raised (Note: State General Fund appropriation was approved in 2023).2 ï To be the source for final decision-making during the development of the project by serving as the road map for the final development plan. ï Provide agency management with the information they need so as to effectively communicate project details to legislators and stakeholders (Note: Legislative approval was obtained in 2023). ï To test the identified essential project objectives with factual data as the actual design process is finalized or other decisions are made. ï Explore alternatives that had not been previously considered (N/A since the Project was subject of
Legislative approval as a local government initiated capital investment). ï Identify potential cost savings. ï Identify and minimize risks associated with the project. ï Analysis of the best construction delivery method. ï Analysis of funding alternatives best suited for the project (Note, State General Fund
appropriation has been approved and substantial private and other non-state funds have been raised from foundations and private donors, See Budget information, supra). ï Provide a basis for a Request For Proposal (RFP) for design services and in negotiating the future design contract (Note: design services have been and will
continue to be donated to the Project by A. Peter Hilger, AIA, principal of
architectural firm Rylaur, LLC and head of the Construction Management Program at the University of Minnesota College of Continuing Professional Studies). ï Provide instructions to the future architectural and engineering design firms and provide them the foundation on which to base their design (Note: design is underway but will be
benefitted by the information in this analysis).
2 Italics will be used for the proposer’s specific responses on lists such as this one with multiple questions in the Predesign Manual format guide. Where longer narratives are provided, italics will not be used.
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SECTION 1 PREDESIGN SUMMARY
SECTION 1--Project (Executive) Summary Statement
PROJECT TITLE: Water Tower Barn Scandia Arts and Heritage Center
LOCATION: Scandia, Minnesota
SCOPE: This Project was authorized by the Legislature in 2023. It consists of three primary elements:
• Reconstruction of the Scandia Water Tower Barn, which was decommissioned by the Hilltop Water Company in 2014. At that time, critical elements of the historic structure’s post and beam construction were disassembled and stored in anticipation of reassembly. The building represents an engineering design of National Register caliber (as determined
by the State Historic Preservation Office) and was an important historical landmark in the
Scandia City center. Although the State Historic Preservation Office has determined National Register listing is not possible due to the barn’s relocation, it has reaffirmed the engineering importance of the water system and the desirability of historically appropriate reconstruction. This is the last remaining barn tankhouse known in Minnesota and also is a
very early example of mercantile society changes at the turn of the century. For the modern
era, it will provide: o An arts and cultural building to complement and enhance the unique history of Scandia as a critical meeting ground between the Sioux and Dakota peoples, as the State’s first Swedish immigrant settlement, as a thriving mercantile community, and as a community rich in wild lands and clean water.
o Synergy with the adjacent Gammelgården Museum, as well as broadening the celebration of the area’s cultural importance as home to Dakota, Ojibwe and Oneota settlements. o A gateway to the St. Croix National Riverway, William O’Brien State Park, two DNR Scientific and Natural Areas, and the Regional Big Marine Park Reserve.
o A community gathering place in Scandia -- a city anticipated to experience substantial rapid growth in the next several decades, and o A regional community amphitheater for the St. Croix Valley to support the burgeoning regional theater and music scene. (Five valley theater groups will be users: Zephyr, Festival, Lakeshore Players, Frosted Glass, and Masquers Theatres). Several local music promoters have indicated plans for regular use; and multiple
local events have a use for amphitheater space, e.g. Taco Daze, Gammelgården’s Fiddle Fest, and Scandia Vinterfest. COSTS: New Construction:
The Project has several types of new constructed space:
• Water Tower Barn. re-erection, for all season use of the Scandia Water Tower Barn—total approximately 3,600 gsf as follow: basement, 1550 gsf; useable is tbd, estimated at 1000 sf main level, 1550 gsf, useable, 1209 sf; mezzanine/second floor, approx. 500 gsf. The
reconstruction will be in a historically appropriate fashion, in general conformity with the Secretary of the Interior’s Guidelines for historical rehabilitation, plus overall site work, including public plazas, trail segment, utilities, parking, rain gardens/drainage, Estimated construction cost: $2.1 million inclusive of site work
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• Amphitheater. construction of an outdoor amphitheater and plaza—
Approximately 250 person capacity,
Estimated construction cost: $250,000
• Site Work and Outdoor Play and Gathering Areas. including a splash pad, as part of the water
theme of the Project and its focus on the preservation and enhancement of adjacent wetlands, a
wetland and rain garden interpretive trail--
Estimated construction cost: $200,000
• Soft Costs (design, engineering title, legal, insurance, disbursement, accounting and interest)—
Estimated costs: $225,000
• Contingencies: soft costs, $50,000; construction, $100,000 Total Contingency: $150,000
• Donated Services and Site—The Project site has been donated by the City, Value estimated at $200,000; Professional and other services have been donated, including architectural, legal, project
management, and materials/construction, value estimated at $500,000.
Estimated Value of donated land and services/materials: $700,000 Remodeled space: The Water Tower Barn is reconstructed and restored, see above. Total Estimated construction cost $2,650,000 Total Estimated soft costs 250,000 Total Estimated Project budget $2,925,000 Total Estimated Project Development cost—$3.625 Million (includes donated services, land, and materials) FUNDING SOURCE(S): State Funding Received in 2023: $2.2 million
Sources for Remainder of Funding: 1. Foundation and private donation $725,000 2. Contributed services: $500,000 3. Land value contributed $200,000
OPERATING COSTS:
The anticipated $125,000 in operating expenses for initial operation (2025 values) will be funded by four sources: ticket sales/rental revenue for barn and amphitheater events; memberships; grants/annual fundraising events; and café sales. It is anticipated the facility will operate on a semi-seasonal basis
(approximately 20-25 weeks per year of full-time programming from May through October; limited use for April, November, and December; and mostly closed from January through March). In addition, it is anticipated the facility will receive a substantial amount of volunteer support for site maintenance and programming. Finally, special programming support from Legacy Funding via the State Arts Board
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and Minnesota Historical and Cultural Heritage grants (Minnesota Historical Society) and foundation and community gifts will support the cost of special programs and exhibitions. For example, SHA has received seven special program grants from Legacy Funds in recent years: an identification and study
of Scandia’s historic sites; development of a heritage trail map; the initial water tower barn history and architectural analysis; history of the pre-European native American population in Scandia; an audience analysis for the arts and heritage center; ; an oral history project; and development of a Scandia History Series event on men’s fast-pitch softball and the series of powerhouse teams in the 1960s and ‘70s.
Principal operating costs are:
• administration (60% time), $60,000,
• building, site, and amphitheater maintenance, $15,000,
• landscaping and snow removal, $10,000,
• utilities and trash, $10,000,
• insurance, $10,000, and
• contingency and reserve, $20,000. SCHEDULE: Funding: Accomplished, as of Submission
Site Acquisition: Accomplished, site is City-owned and Redevelopment Agreement outlines the lease terms and conditions (Redevelopment Agreement will be superseded by the Lease/Use Agreement Design: Site Plan Approval Accomplished, December 2024;
Schematic Design, Completed, January 2025; Final Design, February to May 2025 (including structural engineering and civil engineering) Bid Documents, May-June 2025 Contractor Selection: Three contractors interviewed, Selection made, February 2025
Value Engineering (with Architects and Contractor): In Process, March-May 2025 Bidding & Award: May-June 2025 (45 days) Closing: August 15, 2025
Construction: August 15, 2025-August 2026 (12 months) Occupancy: September 2026
SECTION 1.B--Project Data Sheet - New Building (or New Work)
PROJECT TITLE: Water Tower Barn Scandia Arts and Heritage Center
LOCATION: Scandia, Minnesota
AGENCY/ORGANIZATION: City of Scandia, MN and Scandia Heritage Alliance (Tenant/User)
PROJECT/BUILDING LOCATION: Scandia Community Center Commons, Olinda Trail,
Scandia, Minnesota 55073
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BUILDING OCCUPANCY TYPE: Primary Space Types: Outdoor open space/amphitheater; two-story frame reconstruction of historic building for small group occupancy, museum, classes, and similar uses.
Occupancy Type: Main floor and mezzanine, A-3 Assembly Museum TYPE OF CONSTRUCTION: landscaped exterior spaces and one- and two-story wood-frame construction
Construction Type: Type V-B, wood-frame construction with mezzanine and new basement, approximately 45-feet high not including the windmill and stub tower, approximately 2476 gsf above grade (structural footprint) BUILDING SIZE: Number of Stories: partial one story and partial two story with basement Gross Square Feet per Floor: basement 1550 gsf, first level 1550 gsf , mezzanine >500 gsf
Total Square Feet: < 2476 gsf above grade (assuming full sf of mezzanine structural footprint, however useable estimated at approximately 500) Space Efficiency: >85% OFFICE SPACE: approx. 112 sf useable, multipurpose office in basement
SITE SIZE: approximately 6 acres
PARKING: (Enter information on new parking or replacement of existing; if not included indicate N/A) Type (surface or structured):
Surface Parking
Number of Stalls: 31 (additional parking at City Hall--118 spaces) Area of Parking: 12,065 square feet Total Cost of Parking Structure: N/A Cost per stall: $2,200 estimated (including concrete
walks ROOFING TYPE: asphalt shingles EXTERIOR WALL TYPE: wood siding to match historical INTERIOR WALL TYPE: wood siding (historical materials available) STRUCTURAL SYSTEM TYPE: tamarack post and beam for Tamarack Room (historical materials available) and balloon frame in Stable Room MECHANICAL SYSTEM TYPE: forced air/heat pumps or geothermal FIRE PROTECTION: alarms/smoke detectors, additional code compliant exiting ELECTRICAL SYSTEM TYPE: 400 amps, due to theater use, site lighting, and amphitheater TECHNOLOGY SYSTEMS: Museum and courtyard: Wi-Fi donated by Midco, internet supplier for City of Scandia; Amphitheater: wired for users lighting and sound
LIFE EXPECTANCY OF NEW WORK: structure, 35 years; amphitheater, 35 years, splash pad,
35 years
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COSTS: (Enter costs that are included in the project; if not included indicate N/A) Total Project Cost: $2.925 Million3
Furniture, Fixtures, Equipment, Signage: N/A, Museum Exhibits and FF&E
donated or funded separately Predesign Cost: None, donated services Relocation Cost: (not bondable): N/A, site is vacant Design Cost (B3 sustainability): N/A, general fund
Phasing Cost: None
Site Acquisition Cost: None, City owned and leased SHA Technology Cost: None, Donated Site Improvements Cost: $600,000, approx. Commissioning (req’d for B3): N/A
Parking Structure Cost: None
Building Cost: $2.1 million, Barn only Hazardous Materials Abatement Cost: None Surface Parking Cost: $68,000 State Funding amount: $2.2 million
Other Funding Source(s) Amount(s): $725,000
Value of land and other contributed services: $700,000 SECTION 1C—Not Appliable—not an existing building.
SECTION 2
BASIS FOR NEED – PROJECT BACKGROUND NARRATIVE
MISSION: City of Scandia Vision Statement (from the 2040 Comprehensive Plan): Scandia is known for its distinctive character and history. The City’s overall vision is to maintain its rural character typified by the agricultural heritage and natural resources. In 2040, Scandia has an
economically vibrant village center, which is home to a diverse population that is surrounded by mix of natural resource and agricultural areas intermixed with rural residential and lakeshore neighborhoods. As new development is proposed, the emphasis will remain on the protection of rural, agricultural and natural resources. Scandia Heritage Alliance Mission Statement: Preserve and celebrate Scandia’s rich history, culture, arts and rural character. Project’s Mission Statement: With Scandia’s unique tankhouse as its central focus, Water Tower Barn Scandia Arts and Heritage
Center will celebrate our city’s history, craftsmanship, and the power of windmill engineering to transform pioneer life and business. The venue will be a vibrant hub of our community and the St. Croix Valley through programs and exhibits, creating a preeminent theater and music experience in an outdoor setting, and inside the Water Tower Barn, See Appendix 7 for amphitheater and stage design participants. Tranquil outdoor spaces will draw residents and tourists, including a water garden play
area for kids, rain gardens, and the wetland trail. A key element of the Project is restoration of the
3 Cost Estimates subject to final bidding, see Appendix 6A for contractor and soft cost budget.
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Water Tower Barn – the only remaining barn tankhouse in Minnesota – and a demonstration and interpretation of a functional windmill and early public water distribution. Through programming, we will build synergy and collaboration with Gammelgården Museum of Scandia; Marine Community
Library; regional arts and cultural organizations including theaters and musicians; local schools; and other programs and entities in Scandia, Marine on St. Croix, and nearby communities.
STRATEGIC PLAN:
Construction and operation of the Water Tower Barn Arts and Heritage Center and the Amphitheater are
directly reflective of the above missions (City and SHA). The subsequent broad community support has allowed the project’s fundraising effort to succeed. OPERATIONAL PLAN:
The Scandia Heritage Alliance Board of Directors consists of a broad community mix of residents
from Scandia and surrounding areas with a passion for community, history, and cultural programming. It has provided strong continuity of governance and generated major donations of professional services. The board has carefully developed a practical and effective strategy for constructing the Arts and Heritage Center, as well as a plan for transitioning to program operations. A high-level overview is as follows:
Once construction of the Water Tower Barn is underway, SHA will hire a 0.5 - 0.75 FTE Executive Director to plan events for the upcoming seasons, promote the Project, create and manage the website, write grant applications, maintain relationships with partner organizations, and provide overall management for the center. In the future, additional seasonal employees may be hired to work at the museum and an outdoor summer café. Substantial community involvement is assumed
for event staffing, site operations, and maintenance of the grounds and gardens. OPERATING BUDGET:
Based on interviews with other small-town cultural centers in outstate Minnesota and Wisconsin, we expect that our annual operating budget will be under $125,000 once programming begins. SHA has
raised $20,000 in dedicated operational funding thus far and has identified multiple additional grant opportunities for which it will apply over the next six months to a year prior to opening. SHA anticipates raising one-year of operational funding and program revenue commitments before the center fully opens in late 2026 and similar amounts thereafter.
Once programming begins, building on the experience of comparable small community facilities, we
anticipate funding the center through ticket sales and space rental for programs (50%); memberships (5%); grants and fundraising events (25%); and summer café sales (20%). The plan for on-going operation is based on interviews and review of programming funding with multiple similar organizations, such as New York Mills Regional Cultural Center, Lanesboro Arts, St. Croix Art Barn, Wyoming Area Creative Arts Community, and Widespot Performing Arts Center in
Stockholm, Wisconsin.
SHA has generated support from five well-established local theater groups and several music promotion organizers. It has created partnerships with nearby public and private schools, Gammelgården Museum, and the Marine Community Library for programming. The City and SHA have partnered on other grants for supportive projects that will connect the Arts and Heritage Center,
recreational amenities, and the Amphitheater with the community, supportive infrastructure, and the nearby William O’Brien State Park, including the wetland trail and boardwalk and Gateway Trail extension to Scandia.
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SHA will provide programming and management of the Project after completion and has demonstrated a track record of success in organizing and undertaking community programs giving confidence to this role. These have included historical tours, community events, joint sponsorship
with Gammelgården of multiple program events, and, of course, the joint efforts with the City on the Gateway extension and wetland trail funding.
ALTERNATIVE ANALYSIS:
SHA undertook public hearings on the proposed Project and site location in 2021 and received strong
community support. It followed this up with three studies, attached as Appendices 1, 2, 3, to provide analysis of options, programming, and barn preservation:
• Appendix 1, Site options for the reconstructed Water Tower Barn, Site Selection Feasibility Assessment, Scandia Arts and Heritage Center, by A. Peter Hilger, AIA;
• Appendix 2, Scandia Water Tower Tank Barn: A Historical Investigation, by Architectural Historian Charlene Roise (Funding provided from the Minnesota Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund, awarded by Minnesota Historical Society); and
• Appendix 3, Water Tower Barn Audience Analysis Report (Funding provided from the
Minnesota Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund, awarded by the Minnesota Historical Society). The proposed Project and programming were strongly endorsed by both the community and City officials as meeting community goals and objectives. Thereafter, the Project generated broad support in the wider surrounding area, with multiple letters of endorsement from around the St. Croix Valley region
confirming that the overall concept and programming approach was of regional importance. This level of endorsement helped justify Legislative Funding. Several aspects make this a well-considered proposal, including:
• support of local schools and community groups;
• the adjacent City facilities to provide parking;
• the location across Olinda from the Gammelgården Museum;
• the adjacency of many other City recreational facilities (tot lot playground, tennis, pickle-ball, t-ball, hockey);
• city and community cooperation to help generate funding for the wetland trail and Gateway Trail connection; and
• the support and participation of regional arts groups.
FACILITY CONDITION ASSESSMENT (FCA):
Scandia currently lacks any type of general cultural and arts center and also has no public water play area for children; the region lacks a first-class amphitheater for summer programming. The
community’s cultural resources consist of the Gammelgården Museum, a unique assembly of Swedish historical buildings with programming celebratory of the Swedish immigrant experience and Swedish culture. Gammelgården has been strongly supportive of the Project as complementary to its mission by providing a second community gathering place and attraction, as well as stage space for its annual Fiddle Fest event and other programs. The City has also been strongly supportive and sponsored the Project at
the Legislature because of its congruence with multiple City planning objectives. The unique element in the Project is the reconstruction of the iconic Water Tower Barn, a historical resource of major statewide importance.
The historical structure was disassembled and is currently in storage. It has been donated to SHA for the Project. Because of its importance, considerable study has been done on the condition of that structure.
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Major key elements are in good condition, for example, the interior sheathing of the barn, the tamarack post and beam structure, the tamarack roof rafters, and exterior sheathing material. See CAD Drawing of salvaged structural elements, Appendix 4, and the barn wood appraisal, which includes photos of the
barn material in storage, Appendix 5. Although the balloon-framed stable portion of the structure was not salvaged, the distinctive wagon entry barn doors from this section were salvaged and will be restored for the project. Because of the availability of critical elements, it has been determined feasible to reconstruct and replace
missing elements with historically appropriate materials and return the building to approximate its historic integrity. While the tower element of the barn and the posts holding the Aeromotor windmill were not salvaged, however, the barn restoration expert who dismantled the barn provided excellent historical documentation of its design, allowing the upper tower posts for the windmill to be reconstructed with historically appropriate materials in the exact fashion of the original Aeromotor
design. Finally, appropriate Aeromotor mechanisms in excellent condition are available for the actual pumping and wind power restoration. The Project plan is to use a new Model 802 Aermotor windmill gear box (considering that its design is virtually identical to the 702 model from 1933) with historic windmill blades from a Model 702.
We have discovered no historic photos of the barn other than a blurry image that shows the barn’s tower behind a Scandia bank building (ca. 1919) and a photo of the Scandia Mercantile building that shows the front foot the Stable Room peaking from behind the Mercantile (ca. 1900). Without photographic evidence, the historical experts have assumed that the original floor of the barn was dirt, with a concrete floor added in later years. The building was supported on wooden sill plates likely with no solid
foundation, e.g., no stone or concrete. The new build will include a concrete foundation covered in limestone below the wood siding for structural and long-term preservation reasons. The flooring material on the main level and 2nd-story loft will be pine tongue and grove, with the v-groove facing down to provide a smooth floor surface. The basement floor will be stained concrete. Restrooms will be located in the basement, allowing the upper floors to be more fully utilized. The basement will be
accessible via stairs, as well as an ADA-approved lift. The basement also accommodates storage, the mechanical room and multifunction office space for the program. The exterior appearance and size of the original barn will be very closely approximated, and the post and beam portion of the structure -- including the windmill and water tower -- will be an accurate restoration.
Multiple options (no basement, new lobby entryway building with bathrooms, separate bathroom building) were analyzed for cost and functionality with input from the Project’s architectural historian consultant (Charlene Roise) and the Minnesota State Historic Preservation Office. The construction of a basement proved to be the most cost efficient and functional for both programming and current and future historical preservation.
Conclusion of the Physical Condition Assessment:
While the building is missing some elements, a full re-erection and restoration of key elements is definitively feasible. These conditions are typical of historical frame buildings, and it has been the unanimous opinion of preservation experts and the community that the building warrants reconstruction
and preservation. For details on the history of the Water Tower Barn and the condition of the building materials, see the historical analysis by Charlene Roise, Appendix 2; and the barn materials information, Appendices 4 and 5.
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SECTION 3---AGENCY/ORGANIZATION PLANNING
See the above discussion regarding analysis of potential sites, the historical structure, and audience preferences survey completed by SHA as part of the Project planning process, Appendix 3. All were supportive of the Project as reflected in this Predesign Document and as proposed. The Legislative
support of the Project plan and goals was always strong and bipartisan (Senator Karin Hously and
Representatives Josiah Hill and former Representative Robert Dettmer).
Comprehensive/Master Plan: As noted elsewhere, the Project and its design and programming are consistent and supportive of City plans and the surrounding organizations—schools, community arts groups, Gammelgården Museum, business community.
Site Selection: Potential sites identified in the City hearings and by citizens were analyzed and the
proposed site was selected as best serving the Project’s overall purpose and City and community goals. See Site Selection Feasibility Assessment, Appendix 1. Historic Documentation: N/A, however the Project will preserve a significant historical structure of
state-wide significance, the last known remaining tankhouse in Minnesota. Similar structures in
California are on the National Register of Historic Places. The State Historic Preservation Office identified the Water Tower Barn as showing National Register caliber engineering design. Disposal of State-Owned Buildings: N/A
Stakeholders: The Project has broad community support, including Scandia businesses, Gammelgården Museum, and regional arts groups. It represents a unique opportunity to preserve a unique historical structure and enhance the Scandia downtown. It also will fill a major regional void in terms of cultural and arts programming.
Impacts: This is a new facility and new program. It will not impact other on-going operations, budgets or staffing for any governmental agency. It has received grant funding from the State and from the Minnesota Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund.
SECTION 4 PROJECT DESCRIPTION
SECTION 4A--Architectural/Engineering (A/E) Program
4.A--PREDESIGN REQUIRMENTS FOR THE A/E PROGRAM:
This Project does not arise from an analysis of current State programs and the adequacy of existing State Agency space. Rather it arises from a community effort and the existing policies of the City of Scandia and the State encouraging this type of Project. As such, the analysis suggested in the Predesign Program Manual does not directly apply. The Project was measured against the City’s Open Space Plan and
general Land Use Plan. The site was selected following study of five potential city-owned sites as best
serving the various Project, City, and community objectives The building dictates the size of spaces because it is a historic re-erection and rehabilitation, and the interior spaces are adequate for the anticipated program. The City made the site available (it is an underutilized and minimally improved
baseball field) and agreed it is the ideal location because it is adjacent to other city amenities; has
topography appropriate for the amphitheater; has room for a water feature; and provides an ideal location for a wetland interpretive trail connecting to City Hall.
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4.B--PRECEDENT STUDIES As part of the early Project planning, SHA visited multiple similar venues in Minnesota and other
locations, including arts and cultural centers in New York Mills, Minnesota; Lanesboro, Minnesota; Wyoming, Minnesota; Osceola, Wisconsin; Stockholm, Wisconsin, as well as a similar venue in Norway called Kistefos Museum and Sculpture Park. As part of the amphitheater planning process, multiple amphitheaters were visited and/or studied online, including those in Maple Grove; Plymouth; Door County, Wisconsin; Sun Valley, Idaho; Lake Tahoe, Nevada; Portland, Oregon; River Falls, Wisconsin;
the University of South Carolina; and Regent’s Park in London. Finally SHA convened a group of music and theater users to review and provide input on the amphitheater plan, See Appendix 7. Multiple site plan options were similarly reviewed. While many of these are larger, the result was a well-documented plan and proposal for the Project as evidenced by the Legislative support. Our
architect similarly brought to bear extensive alternative analysis in development of the proposed Project schematic level designs and consideration of options. Finally, SHA convened community planning sessions open to the public early in the planning process and convened a specific amphitheater advisory group that consisted of community theater groups, musicians, sound engineers, and actors to advise on the amphitheater stage design and the overall amphitheater.
As the Project planning process proceeded, SHA sought and received several critical planning grants that resulted in the materials in Appendices 2 and 3, as well as other grants for historical research that will inform specifics of museum displays. The insights of these studies enhanced the Project planning process and design.
The Project architectural planning process made possible by the donated services of A. Peter Hilger, AIA, has been thorough, including examination of multiple site plans and options for the reconstructed barn space—far more than might be typical in a project of this simple scale. Normal site analysis including soil borings, survey, wetland delineation, public works infrastructure (traffic access, parking,
sewer) was also timely undertaken by SHA and the City to support the Project pre-planning process. The result is a well-planned and logical site plan and reconstruction plan for the building.
4.C--TECHNOLOGY PLAN Midco, the primary internet provider in Scandia, has agreed to install wi-fi to the site at no cost and provide free internet service for five years. Midco is also the sponsor for the Project’s small internet café and coffee
kiosk, located across the courtyard from the barn . Other technology plans for the Amphitheater are currently in development. Sound and lighting plans for the amphitheater and indoor stage are being done with insight from a diverse group of theater professionals and musicians, who anticipate use of the facility, as well as sound and lighting engineers. A list of these
participants and their affiliations is attached as Appendix 7. The Project will provide basic lighting and sound capabilities and controls, but it is expected the user groups will primarily provide their own light and sound and equipment for programming as is typical in many of the smaller venues studied. 4.D--TELECOMMUTING PLAN
N/A
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4.F--SUSTAINABILITY, ENERGY CONSERVATION, AND CARBON EMISSIONS
The Project will meet all applicable energy and lighting conservation codes and will participate
in City of Scandia recycling programming. Parking is minimized and bicycle and pedestrian access will be exceptionally good once the city builds the planned sidewalk and wetland trail that connects to City Hall and the future Gateway Trail segment that will land in the Scandia Village Center. This section is to include instructions to the design team on the sustainability and energy efficacy. Specific information is to be included on each of the following:
Most of these requirements do not apply to local projects. Where applicable, it is noted and discussed. The building will meet all energy codes notwithstanding its historical character.
Sustainability and Energy Efficiency
ï Sustainability and High Performance. Include a summary of sustainable design and construction goals in accordance with the “The State of Minnesota Sustainable Building Guidelines” (available at www.csbr.umn.edu/b3/index.html). Minnesota Statute §
16B.325 requires that the State’s Sustainable Building Guidelines be applied.
Alternative and Renewable Energy The following are state statutes having requirements for providing alternative and renewable energy sources. The predesign submittal must contain the information noted.
ï 16B.32 ENERGY USE. N/A This is a City, not State project. That said, the project will
participate in a solar garden if available and cost competitive.
ï 16B.323 SOLAR ENERGY IN STATE BUILDINGS N/A this is not a State project.
ï 16B.326 HEATING AND COOLING SYSTEMS; STATE-FUNDED BUILDINGS
The project proposer must include a study for geothermal and solar thermal applications as possible uses for heating or cooling for all building projects subject to a predesign review…that receive any state funding for replacement of heating or cooling systems. When practicable, geothermal and solar thermal heating and cooling systems must be considered
when designing, planning, or letting bids for necessary replacement or initial installation of cooling or heating systems in new or existing buildings that are constructed or maintained with state funds. The predesign must include a written plan for compliance with this section from a project proposer.
Definition: "solar thermal" means a flat plate or evacuated tube with a fixed orientation
that collects the sun’s radiant energy and transfers it to a storage medium for distribution as energy for heating and cooling.
Geothermal compliance with §16B.326.
The Project design team is evaluating geothermal heating options. It has solicited two proposals for HVAC from recognized geothermal installers active in the Scandia area.
If competitively priced (considering life cycle costs) and equivalent in functionality, the
Project will install geothermal.
Solar: The installation of solar is not appropriate to the historic character and preservation of this building type, as the whole objective is to reconstruct as historically accurate as possible following the Secretary of the Interior’s Guidelines for the
Treatment of Historic Properties.
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4.G OPERATIONS AND MAINTENANCE REQUIREMENTS
The Project will not be operated by the City. Operating costs are typical for this type of
project and will be the responsibility of SHA. It is anticipated the use of the facility will be seasonal and the community nature of the Project and programming will be supported in material part by volunteers. In addition, the amphitheater has recruited multiple theater and music organizations as users, and this use will generate user fees and admission
revenue.
Operating staff will consist of a part-time Program Manager, estimated 60% time, limited part-time seasonal employees for operation and site maintenance, and short-terms program-related staff for amphitheater and museum/cultural center operations. Snow removal (for
any winter programs) and landscaping will be by contract with private suppliers. 4.H--STATUTE REQUIREMENTS
1. Appendix 4c at the end of Section 4 contains a table of statute requirements for capital projects
that receive state funding. Insert this table into your final document and enter a short description on how the project will address each one. This is not applicable as this is not a State agency project.
Where table questions were appropriate to the Project, this table has been considered and
information provided to convey this Project’s planning and predesign response, see below.
4.J--SPECIALTY REQUIREMENTS
1. This Section is for unique requirements related to the project. Project Costs are to take into
consideration the special requirements. List these requirements in Section 4G of the body of the predesign and then reference that they are bound in an Appendix. Examples of Specialty Requirements include:
ï Department of Health licensing requirements / rules / legislation for Supportive
Living Facilities—N/A, the proposer has however consulted with Department of
Health on water feature design. Because the design is fresh water – not chlorinated recirculating water – no approval is required by the Minnesota Department of Health.
ï Laboratory Certification Requirements (i.e. Contamination/ Biohazard Level
design requirements)—N/A.
ï Data Center Tier Level design requirements—N/A.
ï Correctional Facility Design Standards—N/A.
ï Acoustical design requirements—N/A but relevant. Site acoustics have been reviewed and modeled by a consulting acoustical engineer and will be designed to meet applicable City standards; outdoor programming will be limited to occur before 10 pm.
ï Humidification controlled environments (Museum, wood instrument storage, etc.)—
N/A, but relevant. Scandia Heritage Alliance owns a limited number of artifacts, which will be stored off-site in a temperature-controlled storage space most of the year and displayed in
the Water Tower Barn for limited periods. Because artifacts will sometimes be displayed on
the main and upper floors of the barn, humidity control will be included in the barn’s HVAC
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system. Wi-fi-connected thermostats will monitor temperature and humidity and send alerts to management if levels change beyond a programmed number.
ï Historical Design /National Register of Historic Places. (Archeological Site Surveys, coordination with State Historical Preservation Office (SHPO)—
N/A, but relevant. Scandia Heritage Alliance did extensive review with
architectural historians, a structural engineer, and a historic architect and made
the case to the State Historic Preservation Office to consider a nomination of Water Tower Barn for placement on the National Register of Historic Places based on a Category C qualification for the building’s unique engineering and design. Ultimately, SHPO staff told us that the Project does not qualify for
National Register designation because it will be relocated and is not a standing
structure but the proposer will utilize the guidelines in the Secretary of Interior’s Guidelines to the extent feasible to maintain overall historical integrity. The original structure was subject to the following historical reviews to assist in this process:
“Scandia Water Tower Tank Barn: A Historical Investigation” by
Architectural Historian Charlene Roise, Appendix 2.
“The Hilltop Water Company’s Tower Barn: Preliminary Assessment of Historical Significance” by Two Pines Resource Group, 2013 (completed
before the barn was dismantled)
“Inspection and Evaluation of the Hilltop Water Company Barn” by structural engineer Paul Bergson, 2010 (completed before the barn was dismantled) (Earlier evaluations available on request.)
ï Environmental (National Environmental Preservation Act-NEPA, or State Environmental Assessments and/or Environmental Impact Statements)—N/A.
ï Federal design standards requirements.—N/A, no federal funding or permits.
2. In addition to project-specific requirements, all State-Owned/State Agency projects have the following Specialty requirements: Unless noted otherwise, these documents can be found at: http://mn.gov/admin/government/real-estate/manuals-guidelines-forms/index.jsp
N/A, This is not a State Owned or State Agency Project. 3. Furniture, Fixtures, and Equipment (FF&E). The new building will need to be equipped with furniture and other non-construction related elements. The agency will need to consider
office furniture, office equipment, computers, wall hangings/art (See percent for art in State Buildings), plants, files, signage, directories, video conferencing equipment, conference room projection, etc. The predesign is to include costs for all built-in and movable equipment and fixtures. Again N/A but notes below for information.
The Project budget includes necessary FF&E that would qualify for capital
treatment, such as site lighting and similar hard-wired systems, attached appliances, minor supporting structures (ticket booth, sound booth), exterior water pump/drinking fountain etc. These are included in the construction budget.
Scandia Heritage Alliance owns office equipment that will be used in the office
area and six indoor/outdoor cocktail tables that will be used for seating at the
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outdoor café/coffee kiosk. The coffee kiosk itself will be a moveable 8x16 structure – not included in the Capital Plan -- that is being built at no cost as a class project by the Forest Lake High School carpentry class, and US LBM (which
owns Arrow Building Center) is donating the building material.
Other FF&E for the Arts and Heritage Center that are not capital items, in the amount of $28,000, as follows, will be purchased with non-state funds and are not in the construction budget (note, however, the appropriation here included
FF&E). Many of these items have been donated or will be built with volunteer
labor. Office supplies $ 500 Indoor Chairs and Tables $7,500
Outdoor Benches and Picnic Tables
(Volunteer constructed, material only) $5,000 Kitchen equipment $7,000 Misc. program equipment $5,000 Contingency $5,000
Total Budget FF&E budget: $30,000
4. Exterior landscaping and site amenities. Include all costs for landscaping and site amenities that will be part of the project.
a. Work on the overall landscape plan has been donated by local landscape architect Dan
Sandager, owner of Abrahamson Nurseries. SHA received a $25,000 donation from America in Bloom and Canadian National Railway towards purchase of landscape material, and this is the amount we will spend on plant material. We are planning a community planting event in coordination with America in Bloom/ Dan Sandager has
agreed to lead the event and guide planting with community volunteers. Benches will be
donated and/or built with an additional community event. Budget for plants is $25,000, and we will continue fundraising for additional plant donations from our local nurseries. b. Exterior lighting design and construction (parking areas and building areas).
The architectural team has engaged On-Site Lighting & Survey, LLC, to design the exterior light plan. c. Exterior signage (design and signage).
Allowance in construction, $7500; additional signage will be designed and donated by the
Washington Conservation District for the rain garden and wetland interpretive programs.
5. Finally, if the project includes relocation of existing tenants; these costs need to be included in the total project cost. N/A, the project has no relocation. The site is vacant.
6. N/A
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7. PROJECT PROCUREMENT AND DELIVERY
Discussion:
SHA and its architect worked with three qualified contractors to obtain preliminary qualifications,
references, and preliminary price proposals. Following review of pricing, interviews with contractors,
and obtaining the reference reviews, the Project construction team (SHA Construction Committee,
Architect) selected a local general contractor, Wood Crest Builders to work with the Project team and Architect on final design and value engineering. The contractor s is now in process. The contractor is committed to obtaining open-book bids from three qualified subcontractors for each major work area.
Once bidding is complete, a final GMP contract will be entered into with the Wood Crest Builders.
Reasonable contingencies will be established for potential unexpected costs. Given the size and
unusual nature of the Project, with the historical renovation element, this was determined to be the most cost-efficient and best value approach.
4.K PROJECT DESIGN SERVICES AND ADDITIONAL OWNER COSTS
Discussion: The Project has benefitted from substantial architectural services donated by A. Peter Hilger AIA, principal of architectural firm Rylaur, LLC, and head of the University of Minnesota, College of
Continuing and Professional Studies, Construction Management Program. Certain architectural
design and plan production is being provided by Vicki Heschke, Design Right Drafting, LLC. This
cost is in the soft cost budget. In addition, SHA has retained Anderson Engineering for civil engineering and Braun Intertec for structural engineering of the unique Water Tower Barn. The City’s engineering consultant has also participated in issues regarding road access and sewer
system capacity and access. Costs for the Civil and Structural are included in the soft cost budget.
Landscape design beyond the architectural services has been donated by Abrahamson Nurseries, a
local business in Scandia. 4.L QUALITY CONTROL PLAN
N/A for B3 commissioning. Other systems will have normal completion testing and commissioning
by Project design team. We choose to use the prescriptive pathway for compliance.
Section 4 APPENDICES APPENDIX 4a – Space Needs Inventory Form APPENDIX 4b – Programming Methodology with Participatory Design
APPENDIX 4c – Applicable Statutes for State Funded Projects Section 4 Appendices are Not Applicable. Bonding for this Project has been approved, and this is not a State Agency project
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SECTION 5 SITE ANALYSIS AND SELECTION
5.1 CRITERIA FOR LOCATING STATE OFFICES AND AGENCIES N/A, not a State Agency
project; see parking discussion below for Local Government Projects. 1. N/A 2. N/A 3. N/A
4. N/A 5. Provide cost estimates for both surface and structured parking for each site being considered. Local Government Projects:
Costs for three options is not required. Provide a brief description of the site options that were analyzed, the criteria used and why a preferred option was selected. Present the preferred option and its associated costs. Discussion:
The City Commons site selected for the Project does not support structured parking due to topography and site size. More importantly, structured parking is not needed for regular programming.
The proposed site accommodates surface parking of 31 spaces, the code requirement for the
reconstructed water tower barn seating for events (1 space for two seats). It is also very proximate to the City Hall surface parking 118 current spaces, with an estimated 16-18 additional to be added following removal of an unused storage structure. Another city parking lot is located at the site of the state Gateway Trail terminus, offering a small number of spaces,
proximate to the City Hall surface lot. Two other nearby lots also offer overload opportunity,
the Elim Church lot and the Gammelgården lot. All these parking areas operate on an informal sharing arrangement for larger events, and the entities operate a joint calendaring process to minimize conflicts and maximize shared use.
Several sites rejected in the site selection, the Gateway terminus site and the Lions Park did
not support needed parking. The Gateway site was too small to meet the code required 31 spaces. Lions Park, located several miles south on Olinda Trail, did not permit dual-use parking with City Hall, a primary reason for rejection.
The City Commons site selected was strongly supported due to the favorable access for dual
use of the City Hall parking for larger amphitheater events, which avoided parking construction for a limited number of events, a material cost savings. Importantly, compared to the other two sites considered, only at the selected site is parking accessible for pedestrians without any highway crossing. In the Redevelopment Agreement, the City has
agreed to pay for sidewalks to the site from the City Hall parking, and also a highly desirable, improved crossing connection to Gammelgården Museum across Olinda Trail. This parking dual use and synergy with an improved Gammelgården street crossing was only
possible at the City Commons site. The access to City residents and visitors is also very
favorable at this site, due to location on Olinda Trail, a county road and excellent proximity
to State Highway 97, the principal east/west access to Scandia, although these characteristics were shared by the other two sites.
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General Description of Site Selection Process:
The City and SHA considered five options for location of the project:
The City Commons/ballfield site (selected site);
Lions Park on Olinda Trail;
The T-ball field on Oakhill Road;
The Skate Park area directly adjacent to City Hall; and
The City’s former fire hall building location at the future terminus of the Gateway Trail on Oakhill Road.
The siting options were the subject of an SHA-convened public meeting, as well as
Council work sessions and discussions. In addition, to consider the options, the Project
proposers considered the importance of locating the Water Tower Barn at a site in the Scandia Village Center because that was its original location, ideally keeping it on the same road as the original location – Olinda Trail. This goal is in keeping with the
Secretary of the Interior’s Guidelines. Most importantly, the Project proposers engaged
A. Peter Hilger, AIA, to analyze the benefits and desirability of each site. See Analysis
in Appendix 1. Several criteria favored the site selected:
1. Proximity and orientation comparable to the original Water Tower Barn
site, with excellent views of the tower from all directions; 2. Close proximity to the Scandia Community Center/City Hall and its parking lot for larger events, without crossing any major roads to access
additional parking;
3. Close proximity to facilitate synergy with the Gammelgården Museum;
4. Close proximity to the Scandia Village Center for consistency with the City’s land use plan; 5. Room for on-site parking using the existing parking lot area and curb cut
that has served the baseball field;
6. Site screening by a tall hill from the south, a good backdrop and
ideal scenic landscape for an amphitheater; 7. A forested buffer from residential homes, as well as a very small number of homes located in the proximity; and
8. The very limited current use of the baseball field on the site, as well as
the availability of multiple other ball fields in Scandia.
In our Redevelopment Agreement with the City (signed in 2021), the City agreed to pay for a sidewalk along Olinda Trail from City Hall to the Project site, as well as an
improved crossing connection to Gammelgården Museum. The proximity and
consequent synergy with Gammelgården were only possible at the City Commons site.
The access to City residents and visitors is also very favorable at this site, due to location on a county road very proximate to State Highway 97, the principal east/west access to Scandia. Finally, only this site allowed the unique water attributes and
wetland trail opportunity for a water-oriented theme (consistent with the Water Tower
Barn use and history) interpretive program. The other sites have no wetlands or
comparable trail opportunity related to water issues.
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6. Where a site is located and how it functions can impact an organization’s operations and ongoing operational costs. For example: If an organization requires regular shipments and
receipts. N/A, however this site maximizes visibility and synergy with other City and State trails
and Gammelgården Museum. of product; where and how those shipments/ receipts are accommodated on site will affect your operations and your operating costs. Thus, selecting a site for should be
accomplished by identifying needs criteria. N/A Discussion (in italics).
The predesign activities include development of selection criteria, analysis of sites that fit the
criteria, and recommendation of a preferred site or sites. Initial criteria include:
ï Verify specific site restrictions with municipal zoning ordinances. i.e. park ratios, setbacks, rights-of-ways, need for retention ponds
The selected site will meet municipal zoning and will include a rain garden and a
stormwater pond. The conversion from an impermeable current use to a site
with ponding and infiltration will be very positive for the site adjacent wetlands. The City has approved the site plan as part of a PUD development for the overall Scandia Community Commons site.
ï Site is adequate based on coverage of the building, parking and other impervious areas
Site has been approved by the City and the Watershed District and County
Conservation District as having very positive impervious area improvement. It also
meets coverage and parking requirements.
ï Vehicle access, parking, circulation, and delivery on the site meet the needs of the operation.
All are excellent at the site.
ï Utilities servicing the site along with their capacities are adequate
Site is adjacent to city center common septic system and the city has approved
connecting the Water Tower Barn to this system for serving the two restrooms planned
for inside the barn. The Project’s PUD approval requires that portable toilets be brought to the site for larger events in the amphitheater. . The splash pad is fresh water using the site’s well water, and the Minnesota Department of Health has indicated that this splash pad design format does not require their review and
approval.
ï Who does the facility serve, where do they commute from and where they will park
ï Where staff commute from and where they will park N/A
ï Site is serviced by public transportation
Scandia has no public transportation at the current time.
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ï Where shipments and receipts are made N/A
ï Surrounding disturbances that may impact operations. N/A
ï Environmental conditions – Is hazardous abatement/contaminated soil clean-up
needed? No
ï Is an Environmental Assessment or Environmental Impact Assessment needed? No
ï Traffic study Not required by City or County.
ï Historical/Archeological requirements.
The reconstruction of the Water Tower Barn is strongly supportive of Scandia’s land
use plan criteria to preserve rural character and the town center’s historic structures and is very synergistic with the adjacent Gammelgården Museum.
ï Security criteria N/A 7. Sustainable sites criteria. (See requirements under The B3 State of Minnesota Sustainable Building Guidelines (B3-MSBG) at http://www.b3mn.org/guidelines/index.html )
Criteria need to consider sustainable strategies for the site of the proposed project. These include:
ï Construction Activity pollution prevention Will be implemented.
ï Brownfield development N/A
ï Storm water design Will be implemented in accord with requirements of the local
Watershed and Washington Conservation District.
ï Light pollution reduction Will meet general dark sky requirements; however no
specific code applies in Scandia.
ï Bird protection Development will improve habitat vs. current use.
ï Community, Habitat, Transportation, Open Space, Consistent with all City plans for
open space, community character and transportation.
ï When local/site energy systems have been analyzed and selected, the site criteria
may include location of photovoltaic solar panels, wind generators, geothermal
systems. Solar considered but inconsistent with historical character of structure;
geothermal is being considered and will be utilized if cost efficient for HVAC. 8. Site Amenities and Signage
The predesign is to identify anticipated site infrastructure improvements and site
amenities and signage and include their associated costs. Phase I and II Environmental site assessments should be requested prior to purchasing or building to determine the need and cost of soils mitigation.
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Soil Borings identified no contamination, long term use as baseball field and no below ground disturbance identified.
9. Security Depending upon the State Agency’s needs and operations, a security/vulnerability assessment for site and building may be needed to establish the security criteria for site selection. This should be accomplished along with associated costs to implement. N/A
10. Site infrastructure, zoning and codes All available information regarding the existing or proposed site is to be included in the predesign submittal including: Existing Conditions Assessment, Hazmat Investigation, Topographic Analysis, Geotechnical/soils Environmental Studies and Reports, etc.
Investigate the site utility infrastructure needs to determine if the existing utilities have the capacity or will meet the current codes to support the proposed project. Verify zoning requirements. When the predesign team has developed the proposed size and location of the project, it is recommended that the predesign team meet with code and zoning officials to obtain information and requirements.
Done. All have been completed. The Project complies with all zoning requirements
(except for small area within the 75-foot wetland setback, and the City has approved a variance in the PUD approvals). The city septic system is adequate for the proposed indoor bathrooms and sink area. Soil is suitable for project construction. No hazardous materials were identified on site in soil borings. Power and natural gas are available
adjacent to the site. SECTION 6 FINANCIAL INFORMATION
6.1 CAPITAL EXPENDITURES The Predesign Submittal for a proposed project must include ALL COSTS associated with the project.
Provide a project budget using the Project Cost Form in Appendix 6a and the Construction Costs Form in Appendix 6b (Appendix 6a and 6b forms are located at the end of this Section). In the Construction Costs Form in Appendix 6b, indicate the construction types (new/remodel/renewal).
See attached. Appendix 6a, preliminary construction budget, from selected contractor, and Appendix 6b, total development cost budget, from SHA The total project cost includes all direct and associated costs for all activities and phases, including design, surveys, testing, construction, loose equipment, furniture and fixtures, commissioning, move-
in, temporary relocations, environmental site analysis, and contingencies. A qualified cost consultant, cost engineer or a professional consulting firm should be a part of the predesign team for preparation of costs and working with agency staff in developing the total project cost estimate. The construction cost estimate must pull together the program requirements, site conditions, and reasonable project/facility design assumptions.
ï Project Delivery Method (Construction Management, Design-Build, Design-Bid Build) ï Owner’s Project Representative ï Specialty design consultants and systems. (Security, Acoustics, Food Service, Lab etc.)
ï Site/Land Acquisition and development (roads, curbs, parking, lighting,
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landscaping, site amenities, site signage, and zoning requirements such as setbacks, parking/sf ratios)
ï Furniture, Fixtures, Equipment (including interior signage) ï Percent for Art
ï Site Surveys & Geotechnical Investigations (Investigate property and include easements).
ï Site Environmental Assessments (Phase I and II Environmental Site Assessments)
ï Sustainability Design and energy modeling. See Minnesota Sustainable Building Guidelines (B3)- (Add’l service by design team) ï Commissioning (HVAC, electrical, building envelope) Including design review. Note: Systems commissioning required by MN Sustainable Building Guidelines (B3) ï Building Information Modeling (required on new or major remodeling of state buildings) ï Sewer/Water Access Charges (SAC & WAC)
ï Building Permits and Inspections costs
ï Deconstruction/salvage as part of demolition
ï Insurance costs to be borne by the contractor and owner. ï Phasing (or interrupted schedules) or schedules requiring overtime ï Temporary Utilities and Facilities
ï Facility and site restrictions or conditions that effect costs. Investigate whether the site has sufficient utility infrastructure sizing to accommodate the new project. ï Cold Weather Construction ï Facility Security Requirements (affects cost and schedule)
ï Financing Costs
ï Facility Condition Assessment (renovations)
ï Hazardous Material removal (asbestos, lead paint, mold, PCBs, etc.)
Site infrastructure, codes and zoning
Utility infrastructure needs can be costly and it is important to include infrastructure, zoning and code upgrade costs in the total project budget. When the proposed project will be a major renovation or an
addition, investigate the site utility infrastructure needs to determine if the existing utilities have the
capacity or will meet the current codes to support the proposed project. Verify zoning requirements for building and site. When the predesign team has developed the proposed size and location of the project, it is recommended that the predesign team meet with code and zoning officials to obtain information and requirements.
The City has approved connection to the City Center common septic system for the toilets in the Water
Tower Barn. For larger events, toilet trailers will be used and the City Hall toilets near the parking will be available.
City has given PUD zoning status to the Project and approved the site plan and a minor variance for wetland setback of structures. Informal guidance on wetland protection, infiltration/rain gardens, and site surface treatment by the City, Watershed District and Washington Conservation District has
been received and is incorporated in the Project design plan.
Formal additional approvals and permitting is not possible until the building final plans are
completed.
Existing Facilities Analysis
When the project involves renovation of an existing facility, the agency/organization shall conduct a FACILITY CONDITION ASSESSMENT (FCA) to assist in determining the replacement and upgrade
42
needs of the existing building and all of its systems (structural, mechanical, electrical, civil systems). The predesign submittal shall then include the FCA and identify the upgrades or replacements being included in the project and costs. Insert the FCA in an Appendix to the predesign and reference it in this narrative. [insert information following the topics in bold font and delete the above your final document] N/A, however the historical building materials have been reviewed by the design team and selected
contractor and are reusable. Hazardous Material (Remodelings) When the project involves renovation or remodeling of an existing facility, any asbestos, lead paint or
other hazardous building materials will need to be identified and removal costs included. This can have
a significant impact on the overall project budget and it is encouraged that an initial non-destructive survey be undertaken to identify materials and their removal costs. N/A There are no Hazardous Materials in the existing salvaged structure or found in soil borings of the site.
Site Soils
Conduct Phase I and II Environmental Site Assessments. For new structures on existing owned or
property to be acquired, there should be a query into the history of the site to determine soil bearing
conditions and whether there is a history of contaminated soils. Removal and replacement of unsuitable soils can have a significant impact on the overall project budget and it is encouraged to do some initial investigation to identify soil abatement and replacement with their associated costs. Site soil borings demonstrated suitable soils for the Project as proposed, no prior know structures, site was a baseball
field.
See 6.5 Risk Mitigation below for additional costs to be considered Large projects will require owner’s project management costs. Since agencies are not staffed to oversee project development and construction, having an individual or company represent the State
and perform the day-to-day activities required of a project will be needed. Costs will vary from two
to five percent of the construction cost depending upon the level of service desired. N/A, This will
be done by the Project Architect and the SHA volunteer construction committee, consisting of a former timber frame home builder, a second architect, an attorney, and a project manager.
Relocation costs, if applicable, need to be covered in the predesign also. These costs are funded
from the general fund and not bond sales. Information regarding the Chart of Accounts will be presented when the Capital Budget Instructions are prepared and forwarded to the agencies in advance of each bonding cycle. N/A Actual cost histories adjusted for program variations that support the proposed budget are to be
included and the source of these costs should be provided as well. Prior to each bonding session and during the Capital Budget Process, an inflation table will be posted on the Department of Minnesota Management and Budget (MMB) web site at: http://mn.gov/mmb/budget/budget-instructions/capbud2014sess/index.jsp N/A
Cost planning is based on the principle that new project budget ranges should be derived from analysis of historical data for similar projects. If the proposed project costs do not follow historical cost patterns, then the reasons should be determined and explained in the proposed project budget.
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6.2 ONGOING OPERATING EXPENDITURES
1. Along with the initial capital cost of a project, the ongoing operational costs must also be
considered and then compared with current levels of funding for operations, maintenance and staffing.
See prior information based on comparable facilities to the Project in similar communities. 2. The Predesign Submittal must include a breakdown of ongoing operating costs that will be incurred as a result of the project. The State Operating Costs Form – Section 6 -Appendix 6c
(located at the end of this Section) is to be included. Also indicate the source of funding for
the operating costs.
N/A This is not a State Project. However the Form was used in consideration of operating costs discussed prior herein.
ï Estimate of project impact on the requesting agency's operating budgets (for state agencies): An estimate of project effects on operating budgets including staffing levels and corresponding salaries and building repair, replacement, utilities, and maintenance
should be included. This information should follow the format of information supplied
in the State Operating Costs Form - Appendix 6c, located at the end of this Section. Particular attention should be paid to whether the maintenance and operational services are expected to be performed by agency personnel or will be contracted out to private vendors.
Contractor cost estimates attached as Appendix 6a.
ï Summary of proposed operating revenues and expenditures (nonstate agencies and grants): A five-year estimate of operating budgets that identifies major categories of expenditures and identifies associated revenue sources. If revenue sources include fee
generated revenue, a full description of these fees and the assumptions used in making the projections and their justifications should be provided. Potential revenue sources and amounts should also be discussed in this section. All revenue sources (parking decks, dormitories, student centers, cafeterias, etc.) should be listed individually and totaled to show the offset of operational expenses. See prior information.
ï This section should end with a narrative that illustrates a comparison of costs that are anticipated over or under present levels of funding for operations and maintenance and staffing.
3. Although an outside consultant might prepare this section with information provided by the
agency, the agency/organization should review the presentation in detail.
See budget for operating costs in above sections. Operating costs will be the obligation of SHA and not a City cost. This is not a State project for operating costs.
6.3 LIFE EXPECTANCY This section is used to analyze the costs and life expectancy of primary building components. Provide an estimate the life cycle (life expectancy in years) and cost of the proposed project and
major elements. (Walls, Foundation, Roof, Structural System, Mechanical System, Electrical System) and include a cost comparison analysis of at least 2 to 3 options on those major elements.
44
i.e., Steel vs Concrete vs Precast Structural System. Identify the selected elements that are to be used and that are in the cost plan. If the project involves abandoning an existing building and building a new one, this section should also include a comparison of the cost to renovate the
existing building vs building new.
Discussion:
The high quality construction (essentially a new structure, although a re-erection of the structure of the barn) of the Water Tower Barn building proposed will result in a 35-year useful life building.
Useful life of the Amphitheater will be comparable at 35 years. The splash pad will require winter
weatherization and periodic maintenance, along with repair and replacement of certain parts, due to weather impacts, however with such proper maintenance, a useful life comparable to other parts of the Project, is reasonable.
Because this is a historical renovation/reconstruction, no options for alternative systems of structure or design are applicable. High efficiency HVAC will be used and a code-compliant handicapped lift will provide access to the bathrooms and second floor mezzanine. No unusual future replacement costs for either are expected, but each will have on-going maintenance
contracts.
Normal maintenance will be required and replacement of roof, mechanical systems, and some FF&E as is customary in a building and use of this type will be anticipated and budgeted for in the normal course of operating the facility. No unique or unusual elements or components are
proposed that would be extraordinary, with the possible exception of the splash pad. This will
require regular service and maintenance. This is anticipated and will be budgeted for in the operating budget. Longer term, major repair and replacement will be funded by future donations and reserves. 6.4 COMPARATIVE FINANCIAL ANALYSIS
Any financial studies or analysis to determine whether new space should be leased, leased to purchase, or owned by the State will need to be funded by the agency from sources other than the
bonding bill. If the outcome of the study results in a state-owned facility, the predesign (funded by
bond proceeds) can then be undertaken. The predesign document will then contain the analysis showing long term cost comparisons.
N/A, the entire Project purpose is the preservation of this historical building. This is a local, not State project.
6.5 RISK MITIGATION
Identify and assign budget contingencies to risks associated with the project. For State Agency projects involving new construction, additions and major renovations, are to include the following project quality control plan and project budget: a. Building Envelope Commissioning (Design reviews and
construction commissioning and inspections during construction). b. HVAC and Electrical Systems Commissioning (Design reviews and construction commissioning and inspections during construction). c. MN Sustainable Building Guidelines (B3)
d. Building Information Modeling (BIM) with interface of equipment with Archibus.
N/A, not a State Agency Project.
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Identify all potential site related risks: ï Ownership of the site (property liens, deed, etc.) Public ownership with lease for operation to
SHA. ï Zoning ordinances. Design standards and setback requirements, parking/sf ratios, exterior lighting, green space or natural amenities that need to be preserved or given special treatment. Done, variance for setback to wetland granted. ï Easements, both existing and what will be required for new development
ï Acquisition issues, including timing ï Stakeholders- local/community and whether community stakeholder meetings are a part of the process ï Location, description and dimensions, including soil type, climate and topography Done, soil
borings completed.
ï Potential issues with the surrounding neighborhood or facilities Done, acoustical engineering
completed and recommendations incorporated. ï Vibration, or other monitoring during construction ï Utility infrastructure capacity, extension or relocation issues Done, utilities adjacent and sewer
capacity sufficient for proposed structure.
ï Environmental regulations and site mitigation, including history of possible contamination ï Wetlands and shoreline impacts, including a wetlands delineation and the need to fill wetlands Done. ï Shoreline jurisdiction issues
ï Requirements for the State Environmental Policy Act and National Environmental Policy Act
ï Environmental Worksheet and Impact statement requirement (and schedule impact). ï Other regulatory requirements, such as State licensing requirements or U.S. Army Corps of Engineers or Department of Natural Resources permits ï , Site access issues, Parking and access issues improvements required local road impacts
and parking demand. County has informally reviewed and approved curb cut.
ï Impact on surroundings and existing development with construction lay-down areas and phasing ï Historical and/or archaeological considerations ï Site compatibility with sustainability requirements and possible costs Identify risks associated with the design and construction of the building:
ï Building codes ï Bidding climate ï Labor/trades availability ï Labor/trade bargaining agreements
ï Availability and delivery lead time of materials or components; or shortages of.
ï Impact if construction is not completed by a critical date. i.e. if operations are moving
from a leased location into the new construction and leases have an expiration date near the completion date. The predesign is to include the risks and the associated plan for mitigating each of the risks along with contingency amounts included in the project budget.
N/A, Special or consulting risk analysis for a Project of this scale and nature is not warranted or
appropriate.
• Normal job site precautions and risk avoidance measures will be implemented in the ordinary course of the Project construction.
• Ample on-site parking and direct county road access is available.
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• The site is currently publicly owned and ownership will not change.
• The soils on the site support the proposed development as shown by soil borings.
• The site will comply with all applicable codes and permit requirements.
• The site has adequate utility access(gas/electric/internet) and sewer capacity.
• Well conditions are favorable for water well.
• Wetland delineation has occurred and the site will improve wetland water quality.
• Splash pad design has been approved as appropriate by the MN Health Department
• Other items in this discussion covered elsewhere in this Predesign document.
SECTION 6 -
Section 6 forms were utilized for completeness and insights and incorporated in discussion. See
alternative presentation format at Appendix 6a.
N/A, This is not a Capital Budget request.
SECTION 7 SCHEDULE
7.1 SCHEDULE INFORMATION Discussion:
The Project Proposer anticipates a fall 2025 construction start, with site grading, footings and foundation work, historic structure erection and enclosure, and utility installation completed this
fall. Final completion is programmed for fall of 2026, ample time for Project completion. The
Project schedule allows ample time for any unusual issues related to the re-erection of the Water Tower Barn and resolution of any historical design issues. Because some elements of the Project will involve community volunteer labor, this will also be accommodated by a one-year construction schedule (examples, volunteer landscaping installation, spring 2026, bench and planter
construction and site delivery, summer 2026. The period from now until September 2025 is
adequate for final design/construction documents, bidding, permitting, mobilization, and other processes, particularly given the scale of the Project and the site ownership by the City. Proposed project schedule: Predesign should include a realistic schedule for all stages of the project.
Site selection and acquisition required government actions and proceedings at all levels, designer selection, design approvals, construction, occupancy/relocation, and commencement of operations (commissioning) should all be included (if applicable). Pay special attention to environmental approvals, phasing and associated costs.
Discussion:
See 7.2 schedule below. Times are adequate for all needed predesign activity. Multiple pre-approval and early approval actions have already been taken and approvals received, as discussed throughout this document.
Proposed funding sequence: The schedule should include a funding sequence for the project that reconciles the agency's needs with the alternate year capital budget cycle if the project will receive
47
funds from more than one appropriation cycle. And the schedule shall include relocation time and sequencing.
Discussion:
Funding from the State has been obtained. Private non-state funding has been pledged and/or received and substantial donated services and the Project site have been donated. City funding for its limited costs is in previously approved capital budgets (sidewalk connection). The City with
support from SHA has also been approved by LCCMR for 2025 funding for the wetland trail.
While not yet legislatively approved, it has strong likelihood of approval in this legislative session.
The schedule should include owner-related functions also such as: a. Identify and purchase land b. Develop land to provided needed utility services.
b. Environmental Assessments or Impact Statements
c. Owner required shut-downs
d. Regulatory reviews (Codes, Health Dept, Environmental, Planning Commissions, etc.).
e. Secured access by contractors (work within a secure facility will extend the construction schedule
due to entry/exit inspections, tool inventories, and security functions which typically reduce actual
hours worked per day). f. Owner review of documents g. Commissioning h. Move/relocation 7.2 SCHEDULE INFORMATION REQUIREMENTS
A summary of milestone dates is to be provided:
Discussion/Presentation:
Funding received: State funding received; Private funding received, 100%, final deadline, September 2025, additional funds raised may allow certain identified
upgrades in project systems or designs.
Design Completion Date: May 30, 2025
Bidding/Award of Construction: June 15, 2025
Construction Start Date: August or September 2025
Midpoint of Construction: June 2026
Construction Completion Date: September 2026
Move in dates: September 2026
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PREDESIGN CHECKLIST
1. Minnesota Statute §16B.335 Subdivision 3 requires submittal of a Predesign Document to the Commissioner of Administration on proposed projects that have a construction cost of $750,000 or
greater ($1,500,000 for a local government project) when State money (of any amount) is used on the project. 2. When an appropriation is made for a major construction project, Minnesota Statute §16B.335 Subdivision 1 further requires that you not prepare final plans (construction documents) until you
present the program plan and cost estimates for all elements necessary to complete the project to the chair of the Senate Finance Committee and the Chair of the House Ways and Means Committee and they have made their recommendations and the Chair of the House Capital Investment Committee is notified.
See attached Checklist, attached as Appendix 8.
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APPENDICES
Appendix 1 .................................... Site Selection Study Appendix 2 ..................................... Historic Building Analysis Appendix 3 ..................................... Audience Analysis Appendix 4 .................................... Barn CAD Drawings of salvaged elements
Appendix 5 ..................................... Barn Material Condition Information Appendix 6a ................................... Costs estimates by contractor Appendix 6b ................................... Total Development Cost estimates by SHA Appendix 7 ..................................... Amphitheater Design Participants Appendix 8 ..................................... Predesign Checklist
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Appendix 1
Site Selection Study See the following pages for the Site Selection Study by A. Peter Hilger, AIA
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Rylaur, LLC 14 Pheasant Lane North Oaks, MN 55127-2512 612-868-3636
November 8, 2019
FEASIBILITY REPORT
TO: Ms. Susan Rodsjo
Scandia Heritage Alliance
FROM: A. Peter Hilger, AIA philger@rylaur.com
RE: Scandia Arts and Heritage Center
Site Selection Feasibility Assessment
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
After evaluation of all the potential sites given to me by the Scandia Heritage Alliance (SHA), I
have concluded that the best site to locate the historic Water Tower Barn as a central element of
a Scandia Arts and Heritage Center (SAHC), with consideration of the overall impact to the
community park and recreation facilities, is the existing ballfield site south of the Community
Center, across the existing wetland. This report will outline the rationale and basis for that
determination.
SUMMARY OF REQUEST
I was contacted by Susan Rodsjo on June 11, 2019, to assess a variety of sites within Scandia
for the relocation of the historic Water Tower Barn. A tour of the Lions Park, T-Ball Field, South
Commons Ballfield and former Fire Station sites with the SHA Board of Directors was conducted
on July 12, 2019, most of which were already familiar to me as a frequent cyclist in the area.
Based upon my previous experience planning the historic James J. Hill North Oaks Farm
restoration,, including restoration of the historic Creamery thereon and preparation of the Park/R
Report, a wide-ranging Park and Recreation master plan for the North Oaks Homeowners
Association, I am well familiar with the needs of a small community to preserve not only its
historical legacy, but its public recreation amenities as well. This report is my best judgement,
given a variety of factors later described, on how to proceed.
PROJECT OBJECTIVES
Summarizing the basis for review, I referenced the community input presentation materials dated
May 13, 2019, that essentially summarized the following community goals and objectives, within
which the proposed SAHC would presumably fit:
· Pride in the history of Scandia and its Swedish heritage
· Value in the broad recreational opportunities within the community
· Desire to maintain the rural character of the community, but also maintain a vital vibrant
town center area
· Desire to boost tourism and economic vitality within the community.
· “A site seen is a sight visited” meaning a visible site is more likely to be visited.
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Rylaur, LLC 14 Pheasant Lane North Oaks, MN 55127-2512 612-868-3636
SUMMARY OF PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS:
Based upon discussions and presentations prepared by Scandia Heritage Alliance, the program
primarily consists of the following elements:
· A new site for placement of the restored historic Water Tower Barn, oriented roughly
perpendicular to a street (for historic context) and highly visible to the community as they
drive, bike and walk by
· Co-located with a small amphitheater, indoor/outdoor community space, exhibit space,
and/or interpretive space for the history of Scandia and the Water Tower Barn
· Connection to publicly oriented spaces that identify as “community centric”
ALTERNATE SITE EVALUATIONS
With a population of approximately 4,000, Scandia is a highly decentralized, somewhat sprawling
rural community that has the benefit of a small “downtown.” Unlike many small rural towns, the
downtown core, dominated by the Elim Lutheran Church, sits atop a small hill, with municipal
access points that do not converge into a typical “Main and Main” arrangement, but rather an
hourglass arrangement resulting in two larger triangular areas. Hwy 97-Scandia Trail North, the
main local artery, is north of the central part of town, and two county roads – Olinda Trail North
and Oakhill Road North– both access the central part of town and converge (O+O), but contain
commercial and residential frontages apart from the main intersection of these roads. Between
Oakhill and Olinda, and below the hill and the church, sits the central public space which I will
refer to as the Commons, adjacent to the Gammelgården Museum to the west, and the Meister’s
commercial area to the east. The entrance to William O’Brian State Park is just over 3 miles from
the Scandia Commons, making access for visitors very convenient.
Beyond this central Commons, Scandia is spread far and wide along county and local roads, at a
relatively low density. From a bicyclist’s perspective, the joy of rural riding is enhanced by the
small village feel with a unique character – a pleasant rest stop along the way.
Following is an evaluation of all the sites considered.
SITE 1: Lions Park
Located 1.66 miles south of the intersection of Olinda and Oakhill, this property is used for picnics
and community gatherings and includes a shelter and a small parking lot. The property is oblong
in the shape of a flattened football. Although the property is adjacent the historic Hay Lake
School, and the Swedish Settler Obelisk is within walking distance, the distance from the main
center of town and the public Commons offset any potential advantage this site may have. This
location would be better suited as a community recreation area. There is adequate space for this
purpose, and it could be enhanced with additional recreational development and “refinement”
when needed to suit a growing population. It is conceivable that a non-league ball field could fit
within this site, however its dimensions are better suited for T-Ball, U-12 soccer, or lacrosse. As
the population density grows in this area, this park is likely to better serve a neighborhood need,
as well as a community need.
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Rylaur, LLC 14 Pheasant Lane North Oaks, MN 55127-2512 612-868-3636
SITE 2: Old Fire Hall
Already owned by the City, the old fire hall is likely a well-structured asset whose location is east
of the commons, in the Meister’s block. This site will ultimately enable connection to the future
Gateway Trail link. As a late 1960s (writer’s guess) fire hall, the building does have the capability
for adaptive re-use as a commercial structure, or even a residential one. There is ample room in
the rear yard for the Water Tower Barn, and as such it would make a compelling attraction for the
Gateway Trail, but its location would be almost invisible from the street. To place the building
where the fire station currently sits wastes a perfectly good building resource that is currently
being used by the Lions and the Boy Scouts. In the future, the building could alternatively be sold
to the public, and the economic benefits invested elsewhere.
SITE 3: Oakhill Ball Field
While contiguous to the commons area via a planned trail connection, the Oakhill ballfield sits a
bit low from Oakhill Road, and presently contains a small ballfield identified in the 2005 Park Plan
as a T-Ball field. The access to the parking lot is 1/3 mile from the Oakhill Olinda intersection,
and presently at the southern edge of the Meister’s commercial district. Given that more traffic
likely uses Olinda, this site is “less visible to many” but is still clearly visible from Oakhill Rd. To
place the Water Tower Barn on the site would mean that the iconic double doors would be well
below grade of the street, unless placed where the driveway entrance currently sits, making
vehicular access to this site all the more challenging. Overall, low visibility and proximity to
residential homeowners are the primary reasons this may not be the best possible site for the
Tower Barn. This site may have potential as a separate amphitheater site, although adjacent
residential properties are likely to cause problems.
SITE 4: South Commons (current ballfield)
Located at the descending curve on Olinda Trail, opposite an open wetland from the
existing community center, this site is at the southwestern corner of the Commons, a
quarter mile from the intersection of Olinda and Oakhill. It presently hosts a full size
(roughly 242’ X 235’) fenced baseball field, identified in the 2005 Park and Recreation
plan as a youth softball field. The sight lines to the Water Tower Barn—if the structure is
strategically located—are a unique attribute of this site. Located in the curve, it would be
visible heading either north or south along Olinda, and on the same street as originally
located. With some strategic forest management, the barn would also be visible from the
existing community center, a welcome visual reminder of the town’s past history from any
point around the perimeter of the wetland. Further, the site has potentially excellent
connectivity to the rest of the Commons’ amenities, as well as proximate access to the
Gammelgården Museum site, allowing shared social functions to occur easily without
transportation (e.g., weddings and reunions). The only disadvantage is the possible need
to relocate a baseball field.
SITE 5: COMMUNITY CENTER / Wojtowicz Skate Park
Though not requested by the Scandia Heritage Alliance Board, I did look at the possibility
of locating the Tower Barn on the corner of Olinda and 209th Street, a rather prominent
location that would certainly enable good visibility, and would place the tower below its
former location. In addition, this location has excellent access to Gammelgården , and
also has the advantage of a large parking lot and potential for shared utilities with the
Community Center. However, I determined this is not the optimal site due to the fact that
it is currently home to significant improvements, including a permanent ice hockey rink, a
warming house, and a pleasure skating rink, all of which presumably would have to be
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Rylaur, LLC 14 Pheasant Lane North Oaks, MN 55127-2512 612-868-3636
relocated. There is sufficient area to construct an adjacent Arts Center and there could be
sufficient room to locate a small amphitheater, however this would limit the City’s ability to
expand the Community Center in the future, a factor that should be retained given the
potential long-term growth of Scandia.
COMPARATIVE SITE ANALYSIS CHART
ADVANTAGES DISADVANTAGES
Lions Park · Historic synergy with Hay
Lake School, Swedish
Monument
· Sufficient area to develop
· Supported by Lions
· Could support a relocated
softball field here for no net
loss of field space by having
the Water Tower located
elsewhere
· Distance from O & O intersection -
- 3 miles away from the Scandia
Commons and the Village Center
· Loss of some open neighborhood
recreational space
· Not connected to Gateway Trail
· Distant from Gammelgården
· May not qualify for historic
designation (distance issue)
Fire Hall · Best connection to future
Gateway Trail
· Fire station could become
arts center (adaptive re-use)
· Close proximity to Community
center area.
· Close proximity to Village
Center
· Loss of real estate asset (if tower
barn is placed facing street)
· Rear lot if existing building is
saved makes tower much less
visible as a historic asset
· Loss of use for Lions and Boy
Scouts
· Possible incompatible adjacency
with Meister’s (noise, parking)
· Close proximity to residential
homes
· Limited parking
Oakhill T-Ball
Field
· Close proximity to community
center area (via trail)
· Close proximity to Village
Center
· Topographical issues with single
vehicular access
· Tower Barn would be well below
street grade
· Close proximity to residential
homes
South Commons · Close proximity to community
center area (via trail)
· Close proximity to Gammel-
gården via a new trail and
crossing
· Close proximity to Village
Center
· Excellent visibility of tower
from all directions
· Screened by tall hill from the
south – good “backdrop”
· Ideal scenic landscape for an
amphitheater
· Substantially surrounded by
wetlands (mosquito issue?)
· Possible relocation of ballfield
· Some woodland “thinning”
required to view site
· Fill will be required for
amphitheater berm (but could be
drainfield?)
· Due to adjacent wetland, need to
verify if soils are compatible for
building.
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Rylaur, LLC 14 Pheasant Lane North Oaks, MN 55127-2512 612-868-3636
· Site includes forested buffer
from residential homes
· Room for parking – and close
proximity to Community
Center for overflow parking
Skate Park · Best location for tower barn
visibility and proximity to O+O
intersection.
· Shared parking with existing
community center facility
· Potential for shared utility
connection
· Best location for connection
to Gateway Trail and
Gammelgården
· Clusters all community-type
facilities in one location
· Close proximity to Village
Center
· Would displace skate park, which
would involve considerable
expense to relocate elsewhere in
city (will not fit elsewhere in
commons area except in T-Ball
field)
· Challenging to get amphitheater,
arts center, tower barn and allow
for community center expansion
within the space provided.
RECOMMENDATION
Given the variety of factors at play with this evaluation, I recommend the South
Commons as the best possible option because this site
· Enables the Water Tower Barn to be visible to the public
· Can host the Arts/Visitor Center and an amphitheater in one location
· Retains suitable access to the Scandia Community Center and Gammelgården
· Retains adequate access to the future Gateway Trail via the Community Center
· Maintains adequate distance from residential properties that may be affected by
public use.
· Is located in close proximity and on the same street as the original Water Tower
Barn site
· Has an ideal topography and scenic landscape for an amphitheater
With this recommendation, two issues should first be resolved, namely:
· Determine the suitability of the soils for building support, stormwater management
and septic system installation
· Assess the current status and possible relocation of the existing ballfield. Its
present condition suggests it is not well utilized (perhaps in favor of other, newer
facilities) and it is barely identified in the Park Plan
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Rylaur, LLC 14 Pheasant Lane North Oaks, MN 55127-2512 612-868-3636
Scandia Arts and Heritage Center Development Proposal
Given this recommendation, and assuming the soils are adequate or reasonably
correctable to support a structure, let’s examine the development potential for this site.
Following is a summary of the details for the conceptual redevelopment. Please see
Exhibit A for the overall development plan.
Water Tower Barn Position (#1)
Ideally, the barn should be located immediately east of the entrance to the site,
perpendicular to the roadway curvature. This provides the best visibility with a clear line
of sight from Olinda travelling north, and from the hill descending Olinda travelling south.
One condition precedent to host good visibility is a careful thinning of the existing
woodland edge of the wetlands both southwest and north of the barn. Existing vegetation
is primarily poplar with some young oak and appears capable of being thinned to open
the vistas.
Suggested pruning (blue “X”) to see Tower Barn, screen parking (green)
Selective thinning of poplar grove to see Water Tower Barn location (blue)
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Rylaur, LLC 14 Pheasant Lane North Oaks, MN 55127-2512 612-868-3636
The barn can primarily host only public events on the main level, totaling approximately
1,500 SF, likely as an open meeting or gallery type space. The upstairs cannot be made
public unless it is handicap accessible, and the cost as well as obtaining compliance with
Code for exiting make this challenging except for private office or storage type functions.
Amphitheater (#2)
Clearly, this is potentially the largest element of the plan, and to be successful, must be
positioned away from competing noise factors, and ideally oriented in such a way as to
limit late afternoon evening sun from cascading into the audience’s eyes. The proposal
features a circular plaza for free seating at the east edge of which is a raised stage. A
gentle embankment would need to be created from fill (and possibly hosting a portion of
the septic drain field that would incorporate simple terraced type seating. Given the size
of the space I estimate a seating capacity of 160-180 loosely placed seats, plus what is
available on the flat portion and atop the berm. The backdrop to this amphitheater would
be the woods beyond and the wetland to the side. The water tower barn cupola would be
easily visible from the stage. Trees should be considered atop the berm, and possibly
within the seating area, for shade and cover. Access could be from either side of the arc,
and via steps at the center.
Arts/ Visitor Center (#4)
Outside of the viewshed, but visible from the street and the amphitheater would be space
for a 3,500 SF structure, the adequacy or programming of which has not been fully
determined. Shown as a freeform structure, it can either be designed consistent with the
historical Water Tower Barn style, or be re-interpreted into a complementary, but more
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Rylaur, LLC 14 Pheasant Lane North Oaks, MN 55127-2512 612-868-3636
modern architectural style, perhaps influenced by Swedish design. Ideally, the building
would be highly “transparent,” taking advantage of the views around the site and to the
Water Tower Barn. I do not recommend a connection to the Water Tower Barn, except by
walkways and perhaps a trellis or pergola. The arts/visitor center should stand on its
own.
Parking (#5)
Utilizing the existing curb-cut access, a winding driveway would lead the visitor to a
curved parking area, capable of hosting 26-30 cars. If the budget can afford it, use of
pervious pavement for runoff should be considered, at least on sides toward the
wetlands. Consideration of setbacks from the wetland are also necessary and may affect
total parking or final layout. Recall that substantial additional parking is available at the
Community center lot within walking distance of this center.
Trails, Vistas and Linkages (#6, #7, #8)
One of the more interesting opportunities with this location is the ability to connect the
various parts of the Commons areas together. To maintain this connectivity, I propose a
loop trail starting from a main overlook #6 on this site, cut through the woodlands to the
east, and accessing the Oakhill T-Ball site via a boardwalk cross the south side of the
wetland (#7), then skirting and surmounting a small rise for a viewpoint across the
wetland (#8-B), trailing north to the tennis courts, then west across the south edge off the
community center, to another prime vantage point (#8-A) across the wetland toward the
Water Tower Barn, then circling the northwest and west sides of the wetland along
Olinda, returning to the site.
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Rylaur, LLC 14 Pheasant Lane North Oaks, MN 55127-2512 612-868-3636
8-A: Vista across wetland looking south from Community Center to proposed site
8-B: View from small rise west across wetland
The boardwalk may require special DNR permits, but should not cross the center of the
wetland for two reasons: to preserve an uninterrupted view across the wetland from the
vantage points, and second, to preserve a larger area for wildlife habitat. The other trails
should be wide enough to accommodate walkers and bicyclists, as well as be
substantially handicap accessible.
The final critical link for this site is across Olinda to Gammelgården. Safety is a prime
concern around this location. A trail separate from the edge of Olinda, and behind a
guard rail (due to the slight curve) can round north from our curb cut to 209th Street to
cross, taking into account the relatively good sight line distances. It is recommended that
a pedestrian signal and marked crosswalk be installed at the crossing, likely requiring a
county permit.
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Rylaur, LLC 14 Pheasant Lane North Oaks, MN 55127-2512 612-868-3636
Proposed crossing location to Gammelgården from drive cut, looking north on Olinda
Other Potential Amenities (#9, #10)
Two additional amenities could be considered for this site – an old-fashioned hand crank
water pump to hypothetically “connect” the water to the tower. The other opportunity may
be to relocate the Swedish Settlers Monument obelisk to this site, with appropriate
interpretation toward its relocation. As it is quite hidden in its present location, it seems
beneficial to have it where people are already congregating about history and art.
THE QUESTION OF THE BALLFIELD
The recommended site has ballfield #4, identified within the 2005 Park Plan as suitable
for Youth Softball. The condition of this particular field is less than perfect, and is not
even identified the same way the youth T-Ball fields are on the park maps. It is possible
that the field is not needed given present and planned inventory. However, I recognize
that field space is hard to give up, and therefore have examined other possible locations
where this field could feasibly be reestablished.
Lions Park
The same sized field can be accommodated at this location where no field presently
exists. If considered for this location, I would recommend reconsidering the perimeter
fence such that when the ball field is not in use, the outfield is more accessible for other
activities and games. Again, this is a possible replacement location dependent on the
overall recreational needs of the community.
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Rylaur, LLC 14 Pheasant Lane North Oaks, MN 55127-2512 612-868-3636
Barton Johnson Park
Just north of Gammelgarden, this semi-public facility already has a very small ballfield
that appears unused, but the size of which is sufficient to host the same sized field.
T-Ball Field Expansion
In order to better concentrate ball fields within the Commons boundaries, additional land
acquisition could be considered. 14823 Oakhill could become part of a long-term
strategy to expand the commons to its most logical boundaries. This particular site,
adjacent to the T-Ball field, enjoys a unique topography that could not only accommodate
parking adjacent the street, but has a west facing slope ideal for spectators. This parcel,
plus the triangular parcel just to the north would easily accommodate an identical sized
field that is well connected to the playground and other Community Center amenities.
Further, this location is also well positioned diagonally across from Meister’s, where the
connection of adult and youth events to this type of establishment is nearly always a
positive. However, this is dependent upon sale of the land, and would require some
construction costs in site development to make it work. With the addition of a third T-Ball
or young youth field, this would create a baseball/softball centric park theme, and would
improve access of the Gateway Trail link to the community center along a newly created
pathway system.
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Rylaur, LLC 14 Pheasant Lane North Oaks, MN 55127-2512 612-868-3636
OTHER OPPORTUNITIES FOR THE CITY OF SCANDIA TO CONSIDER
(not part of the Scandia Heritage Alliance plan)
As an architect and planning professional, I could not help but take a longer-range view
and think outside of the box on behalf of the City of Scandia. Therefore, while examining
the site alternatives, I identified the following potential opportunity:
Acquire all parcels within the Commons
Scandia will likely not get smaller, and the Community Center can only get more vibrant
and important as a community asset such that all the parcels bounded by Oakhill be
acquired over time (right of first refusal). The analogy is to consider the community center
“Commons” as the town square. Eliminating existing structures and opening up the
views to the commons along the roadways will only increase the appeal and vitality. One
could even consider higher density residential/commercial along the east and north
frontages of Oakhill that then have the Commons as a walkable asset. This also brings
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Rylaur, LLC 14 Pheasant Lane North Oaks, MN 55127-2512 612-868-3636
the Gateway Trail most directly into the Commons. This includes 14823, 14811 (both
single family residential) and 14791 (commercial) Oakhill Rd.
NEXT STEP(S)
In order to determine feasibility of this plan, the next steps, in order, should be:
1. Order a soil test to determine buildability, storm water management capability, and septic
system capability. If all are acceptable, then:
2. Have the wetlands classified and delineated, and a survey of the property created
3. Explore environmentally viable alternatives to protecting the south wetland within a 75’
setback, with the aim of reducing the setback, if possible
4. Complete a more precise master plan of the site that can be used for planning and
fundraising.
CONCLUSION
The City of Scandia has a unique opportunity to blend its history and heritage into a
community asset by thinking ahead to the potential of existing sites best suited for the
variety of community activities anticipated in the future. Heritage is important, and
heritage matters to the present and future generations. It’s preservation and display
keeps it alive for future generations to enjoy, if carefully planned and implemented.
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Rylaur, LLC 14 Pheasant Lane North Oaks, MN 55127-2512 612-868-3636
DISCLOSURES
Peter Hilger is donating his time and professional expertise to the Scandia Heritage
Alliance, and has received no remuneration for this report. The opinions expressed are
his own based upon the criteria given. Site design schematics are very rough
representations and in no way should be considered absolute. Any conceptual design
would need engineering based verification, which I can help guide.
ATTACHMENTS
Exhibit A: Master Plan Concept
51
Appendix 2
Historic Building Analysis
This 86-page report on the history, engineering, and distinct design of the Scandia Water Tower Barn was funded by a Minnesota Historical and Cultural Heritage Grant from the Minnesota Historical Society. A copy can be viewed or downloaded online at:
https://scandiaheritage.org/water-tower-barn-research
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Appendix 3
Audience Analysis
Highlights from the Spring 2024 Audience Analysis for Water Tower Barn Scandia Arts and Heritage Center are provided in the following pages. The full 80-page report can be viewed or downloaded online at the below link –
scroll to the bottom of the page to find the report.
https://scandiaheritage.org/water-tower-barn-project
Audience Analysis Report
Water Tower Barn Scandia Arts and Heritage Center
April 30, 2024
Table of contents
• Executive Summary ........................................................................ 2
• Project Background ........................................................................ 3
• Methods of Collecting Information ............................................... 3-4
• Survey Highlights............................................................................ 4-5
• Focus Group Insights ...................................................................... 5-7
• Demographics ............................................................................... 7-8
• Next Steps ...................................................................................... 9
• Appendix A: Survey Questions ....................................................... 10-17
• Appendix B: Survey Results ............................................................ 18-62
• Appendix C: Press Release ............................................................. 63
• Appendix D: Country Messenger Newspaper Article ..................... 64
• Appendix E: Pioneer Press Newspaper Article ............................... 65
• Appendix F: Flyer ........................................................................... 66
• Appendix G: Facebook Posts .......................................................... 67
• Appendix H: Focus Group Invite .................................................... 68
• Appendix I: Focus Group Detailed Notes ....................................... 69-80
This publication was made possible in part by the people of Minnesota through a grant funded by an appropriation to the
Minnesota Historical Society from the Minnesota Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund. Any views, findings, opinions, conclusions,
or recommendations expressed in this publication are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent those of the
State of Minnesota, the Minnesota Historical Society, or the Minnesota Historic Resources Advisory Committee.
Executive Summary
Scandia Heritage Alliance (SHA) hired Jill Brown Public Relations to conduct focus groups and an online
survey to help align community needs with planning for exhibitions and programming at the proposed
WATER TOWER BARN SCANDIA arts and heritage center in Scandia, Minnesota. The goal was to gather
feedback from diverse stakeholders and future guests to prioritize a list of potential exhibit topics and
amenities. Input will help develop a long-range interpretation plan.
A total of 395 surveys were completed. Of these, 267 are from residents who indicated a Scandia,
Marine on St. Croix, or May Township zip code (Marine, May and Scandia are sister communities with
overlapping zip codes).
Scandia is synonymous with Swedish culture in many ways. The town’s Scandinavian roots go back to
being home of the first Swedish settlement in Minnesota. For this project, two focus groups of heritage
families tapped into a wealth of ideas to bring the story of Swedish descendants to life in the proposed
heritage center. Swedish themes also were prevalent in the online survey.
In a list of 18 history topics tested, the No. 1 choice among over 400 survey and focus group participants
when asked to select their favorite five topics was, “The history and culture of Ojibwe and Dakota Tribes
in Scandia and Marine on St. Croix.” In a question to rate 18 possible offerings, nearly 75% of Survey
Monkey respondents said they would visit “biking/walking trails around the wetlands with stories of
Ojibwe and Dakota history and culture.” This was second only to an outdoor coffee shop. On a ranking
of activities for children, the biking/walking trail with stories came in third.
A focus group was held with three local residents who have Native American ancestry (two Dakota and
one Omaha). They live and/or work in Scandia, Marine on St. Croix, and Franconia Township
(immediately south and north of Scandia). All three participants expressed great desire – and pride -- in
pursuing a project to research Native American history and culture from the Scandia-Marine area and to
share this history and culture in interpretive displays along a wetland trail connecting the arts and
heritage center to City Hall. They would also like to see this history shared in an interpretive display
inside the Water Tower Barn Museum to help build community connectedness. They were pleased –
and surprised – at the strong interest in this history from the community. All three are willing to sit on
an Indigenous Advisory Council to guide the research and interpretive work. Additional community
members, who had scheduling conflicts with the focus group date, may also contribute to ongoing
efforts.
A focus group with recent immigrants and open-ended questions in the survey show interest in sharing
the historic Swedish immigration story along with present-day immigration stories from other regions of
the world. What are the similarities to the Swedish experiences? How can we celebrate the richness of
different cultures in the region today?
The 395-person survey and four focus groups provide ample data to point to an audience appetite for
Scandia's broad history and a desire to celebrate the present day’s mixture of cultural influences.
Scandia is home of rich history and culture worthy of celebrating.
The data and leads garnered in the audience analysis project, which ran from February through March
2024, will inform the next stages of developing an exhibit plan and amenities for the WATER TOWER
BARN SCANDIA arts and heritage center project. The full list of survey questions is provided in Appendix
A, and a broader summary of survey results is in Appendix B.
2
Project Background
The Minnesota Legislature appropriated $2.2 million in the 2023 Capital Investment Bill for the creation
of WATER TOWER BARN SCANDIA, an arts and heritage center that pivots around the historic Water
Tower Barn Tankhouse built in c. 1895 by Scandia Mercantile owner and Swedish immigrant Frank Lake.
The barn provided water to early residents and businesses. It is believed to be the state’s only remaining
tankhouse. Scandia Heritage Alliance is raising the remaining funds needed to build the project while
simultaneously developing the interpretation plan for the museum component of the center, which will
be housed inside the barn.
Plans for WATER TOWER BARN SCANDIA include a demonstration of a functioning tankhouse and
windmill, displays on Scandia's history, an indoor stage, an outdoor amphitheater, a water garden play
area, a wetland overlook and trails, and a summer café.
The audience analysis project and report improved Scandia Heritage Alliance’s ability to:
•Identify potential audiences
•Create collaborations that meet community needs
•Align community needs with exhibitions and programming
•Prepare to develop a long-range interpretation plan
Methods of Collecting Information
The Scandia Heritage Alliance Heritage Committee, including Committee Chair Pat Borchert and Board
Chair Susan Rodsjo, worked with the consultants to develop a survey.
Online Survey
Survey Monkey was used to create an online survey asking participants to indicate their interest levels in
18 historical topics and 18 center offerings. Additional questions were asked about behaviors that will
help design the guest experience, such as preferred days and hours of operation. The survey was open
to the general public March 3-25, 2024, and promoted using several methods:
•A news release was distributed to local media (see Appendix C). A front-page story ran March 6 in
the local paper, The Scandia-Marine Country Messenger (see Appendix D). The Pioneer Press
printed a March 18 story in the Washington County edition (see Appendix E).
•Flyers were created that volunteers posted around town and emailed to contacts (see Appendix F).
•Several social media posts were created and shared by friends and colleagues (see Appendix G).
Survey questions asked if participants needed a printed version or a survey in another language. A
handful of people requested a hard copy. Those were mailed out, but only one was returned (but this
respondent missed the deadline to be included in the results). No one asked for a different language.
The response was excellent, with 395 completed surveys.
Focus Groups
The committee identified three target audiences for the focus groups:
•Heritage families in Scandia
•Native American residents
•Recent immigrants
3
Brainstorming sessions identified potential candidates. The consultants drafted a flyer and script to aid
in recruitment (see Appendix H). The Alliance volunteers contacted people, and the consultants used
their personal connections to make inroads in the Native American and Hmong populations.
Four focus groups were conducted, each with seven or fewer people. Heritage family sessions were held
Feb. 29 and March 23. Recent immigrants met March 25. Native American residents met April 1. Focus
groups used various tools, including a gallery walk with notepads on the various history topics. Because
of a snowstorm, Zoom was used with the recent immigrants. The Native American group focused
primarily on how to include their culture in the center.
Survey Highlights
(Percentages are rounded, full report in Appendix B)
Top Exhibit Topics
Respondents selected their top 5 choices from a list of 18 topics
•The history and culture of Ojibwe and Dakota (57%)
•Cultural parallels between historic Ojibwe and Swedish culture (40%)
•The three immigrant men from Sweden who established the first Swedish settlement in
Minnesota (38%)
•Early women entrepreneurs (38%)
•The Water Tower Barn impact on the area (33%)
•The story of Frank Lake (Scandia founder) and development of entrepreneurial businesses (31%)
•The immigrant story (30%)
Top Features/Amenities
Respondents indicted which features/amenities they would be likely to visit or attend at the center
(18 choices – no limit on number selected)
•Outdoor coffee shop (79%)
•Bike/walk trails around wetlands with Ojibwe and Dakota history/culture (74%)
•Scandia history displays in the barn (73%)
•Live music in the amphitheater (68%)
•Walking paths/peaceful seating near wetlands and rain gardens with interpretation on clean
water (66%)
•Live music in the barn (64%)
•Theater in the outdoor amphitheater (55%)
•Art shows - local and regional artists (51%)
Top Kids’ Activities
Half of the survey respondents have children or grandchildren under age 12 who they would consider
bringing to WATER TOWER BARN SCANDIA. Following are the most selected kids’/family activities (no
limit on number of choices)
•Swedish treats, ice cream, snacks at an outdoor café (74%)
•Water garden play area (70%)
•Bike/walk trails around the wetlands with interpretation about Ojibwe and Dakota history (65%)
•Family movies in the outdoor amphitheater or indoor barn (56%)
•Children’s theater in the outdoor amphitheater or indoor barn (55%)
•Art classes for kids (54%)
4
Special Things about Scandia to include in the Center (Open ended)
•Scandia history
•Swedish heritage
•Natural history / geology / native plant life / connection to St. Croix River
•Community / social gatherings
•Indigenous history
•Stories of long-time resident families
•Immigrant history/heritage
Scandia is Associated with What? (Open ended)
•Swedish/Scandinavian heritage
•Immigrants
•Farming
•St. Croix River
•Natural beauty / nature
Attendance Expectations
•Up to five visits per year (41%)
•Weekend afternoons are the most convenient time (74%)
•Saturdays work best (84%)
•Paying fees would not prohibit participation (72%)
Topics to Avoid in a Heritage Center
The open-ended survey question garnered 76 responses, with many in these general areas:
•Most common comments pertained to keeping politics out
•A few comments asked to avoid talking about climate change
•Any agenda associated with historical interpretation
•Don’t duplicate the history shared at Gammelgården Museum (located across the street, this
museum focuses on the history of Swedish immigration from 1850 to 1880)
Open-ended Survey Responses
The open-ended survey responses indicate broad support for the arts and heritage center, with a small
number of naysayers expressing concern over the project cost (it was not communicated in the survey
that SHA is fundraising to cover the cost of building the arts and heritage center). The responses
generated ideas for other possible areas of focus. The full list of responses to open-ended questions is
included in Appendix B with the larger survey results.
Focus Group Insights
Four distinct focus groups met to discuss different aspects of the proposed WATER TOWER BARN
SCANDIA arts and heritage center. Two groups represented local heritage families – they are
descendants of original settlers and farm families. Next, a group of recent immigrants met to discuss
their perspectives and experiences on locating in Scandia or the Twin Cities metro area. Two participants
live locally in Scandia, one in neighboring Forest Lake, and two in inner-ring suburbs. Members of this
5
group were from Laos, Togo, Kenya, Norway, and Germany. Finally, a group of local residents/business
owners with Native American ancestry met and represented Dakota and Omaha peoples.
Heritage Focus Groups
The format for heritage groups was centered around the shared experience of growing up in Scandia
and having generational stories to share about civic and cultural life. These residents told stories about
themselves, their parents and grandparents, and even exchanged information about town events that
some members were unaware of. Members of these focus groups participated in a paper version of the
survey, and further participated in a gallery walk where they wrote questions and responded to postings
around the room. These groups were structured around the story of Scandia from 1880 to the present
day (the timeframe associated with the start of Scandia’s commercial center and not covered by the
interpretive focus at Gammelgården Museum across the street).
Members of the heritage groups found shared energy on several display topics:
•Cultural life around clubs (Sew and Sew, Rod and Gun, Lions)
•Glory days of men’s fast-pitch softball with local all-stars
•Building homes with catalog kits and local raw materials such as red brick and limestone
•Tools and lifestyle of logging, agriculture
•A day in the life with family trips to the mercantile and party phone lines, and
•Elim Lutheran Church
Participants offered information on where to get display materials, such as softball uniforms, an original
post office desk, and other memorabilia.
Recent Immigrant Focus Group
The recent immigrant group met by Zoom because of a snowstorm. In sharing their arrival stories, the
similarities became clear. Immigrating to a new place caused a mixture of feelings, challenges, and
opportunities -- really no different than the Swedish immigrants from previous centuries. Participants
welcome sharing and celebrating their cultures in the new center.
The format of this focus group provided opportunities to share how they view their membership in the
community and to discuss their cultural traditions, food, holidays, clothing, and other unique aspects of
their experience as immigrants. Artwork, farming traditions, dance, and interpretation were discussed
with a view that these topics would be of interest to visitors of the center.
When asked if there were things to grab for teachable moments at the new center:
•Gratias said Africa has many intricate and different cultures, not one big one. She encourages
people to ask questions. The new center might help people learn how to be curious respectfully.
•Lynne (Director Emeritus of Gammelgården Museum in Scandia) offered music and food as a
way to connect – and as a means to preserve and celebrate culture.
•Bee said remembering where we come from, and he suggested using art as a way to tell the
stories. He shared a tapestry from his Hmong culture, which SHA Board Chair Susan Rodsjo
commented feels similar to historic Swedish folk art. The group talked about the possibility of
sharing tapestries from various cultures represented in Scandia and Minnesota.
•Christine said Africa is too often portrayed as poor, dirty, suffering, starving children. She’d like
to see more of what life really is there. Focus on what is beautiful in the culture.
Members are interested in helping the new center locate pieces of art, clothing, musical instruments,
and people who are performers.
6
Native American Focus Group
The focus group with Native American residents focused on gauging interest in and discussing ideas for
sharing Ojibwe and Dakota history and culture at the center. Participants discussed how the land was
used before settlers inhabited the area and also shared stories about how they grew up in at a time
when their heritage was not something to be shared. Members of this group agreed to participate in a
future advisory panel to direct research on Indigenous history and culture in the Scandia-Marine area, to
guide design of interpretive signage on the wetland trail, and to direct themes for exhibits and
performances.
A few of the key take-aways from the Native American focus group include:
•Participants strongly support sharing Indigenous history and culture along the wetland trail and
expressed pride that our community is pursuing this project.
•Along the wetland trail and/or near the rain gardens, they would like to include interpretation
about native plants, area geology, the value of wetlands, and the natural environment of
Scandia before logging (e.g., was Scandia prairie, oak savannah, white pine forest, other?)
•They support including a display on Native American history and culture inside the Water Tower
Barn Museum to build community and share the area’s full history.
•If SHA and the City of Scandia win a grant to study Indigenous history and culture in Scandia-
Marine, they would prefer that two researchers are hired: One to study Dakota history, and one
to focus on Ojibwe history. They talked about ways to share both cultures along the wetland
trail – perhaps through separate interpretive displays for each culture.
Copies of notes from the four focus group meetings and results from the gallery walks can be found in
Appendix I -- Focus Group Insights.
Scandia Area Demographics
STAT 2022 American Community
Survey 5-Year Estimates
Notes from Scandia Survey
Population size 3,984 Scandia
664 Marine on St. Croix
2,670 May Township
Total: 7,318
68% of survey takers list ZIP
codes from Scandia, Marine on
St. Croix or May Township
Females and Males Scandia Female: 1,962,
Male 2,003.
Marine on St. Croix Female:
378, Male: 343.
May Township Female: 1,316,
Male: 1,351.
More females (68.38%) for all
survey takers
Median Household Income $97,159 Scandia
$135,000 Marine on St. Croix
$132,000 May Township
Education Bachelor’s degree or higher:
40.9% Scandia
70% Marine on St. Croix
54.6% May Township
71.24% for all survey takers
have bachelor’s degree or
higher
Median Age 46 Scandia
57 Marine on St. Croix
54.1 May Township
Largest group in survey was 56-
65 (24.13%)
7
Languages Spoken at Home Scandia 97.8% English only,
1.8% Spanish.
Marine on St. Croix 95.7%
English only, 0.9% Spanish, 2.5%
other Indo-European, 0.7%
Asian and Pacific Islander.
May Township 94.2% English
only, 2.7% Spanish, 1.4% Other
Indo-European, 1.7% Asian and
Pacific Islander.
Native and Foreign Born 1.3% Scandia
2.1% Marine on St. Croix
2.6% May Township
Population over 65 26.8% Scandia
32.6% Marine on St. Croix
27.4% May Township
30.46% for all survey takers
What is the most popular
industry for employed
population 16 and over?
Educational services, health
care and social assistance:
28.7% Scandia
26.4% Marine on St. Croix
21.9% May Township
What is the median gross rent
in Scandia?
$899 (+/- $857) Scandia
$1,750 Marine on St. Croix
N/A May Township
What is the homeownership
rate?
86.7% (+/- 8.7%) Scandia
95.8% Marine on St. Croix
98.9% May Township
What is the percentage of
children? (Under 18)
26.7% Scandia with
Under 5: 5.9%
5-14: 17.3%
15-17: 3.6%
18.9% Marine on St. Croix with
Under 5: 2.6%
5-14: 11.8%
15-17: 4.4%
17.8% May Township with
Under 5: 3.6%
5-15: 10.2%
15-17: 4%
Race and Ethnicity? (Based on
2020 Decennial Census)
3 communities combined:
American Indian and Alaska
Native: 15 individuals
Asian: 54
Black or African American: 19
Hispanic or Latino: 121
Not Hispanic or Latino (white
alone): 6,829
Other Race: 55
Two or More Races: 310
All survey takers:
American Indian and Alaska
Native: 10 individuals
Asian: 2
Black or African American: 1
Hispanic of Latino: 7
Not Hispanic or Latino (white
alone): 318
8
Next Steps
Scandia Heritage Alliance and the City of Scandia applied for a Heritage Partnership Grant from the
Minnesota Historical Society to research Indigenous history and culture in the Scandia-Marine on St.
Croix area and develop an interpretive plan for an Indigenous Heritage Trail. The proposed location is a
wetland trail that would connect the Scandia Community Center to the future arts and heritage center.
If this grant request is not successful, the partners will explore other grant opportunities or apply at a
later date.
Scandia Heritage Alliance plans to apply for a large grant from the Minnesota Historical Society to
develop its Exhibit Plan for the arts and heritage center. The results of this audience analysis will guide
the selection of topics for historic displays. Additional planning is underway for development of exhibits
and center amenities.
In the survey, dozens of people indicated interest in joining an email list, volunteering time, donating
money, and donating talents. All need to be followed up and acted on.
The focus group conversations tapped into many local resources for stories and artifacts that will be
pursued.
9
53
Appendix 4
Barn CAD Drawings of Salvaged Elements
54
55
Appendix 5
Barn Material Condition Information
An appraisal report on the salvaged barn material is included on the following pages, including images of the barn material in storage.
Date: April 14th, 2021
To: Sue and Paul Rodsjo From: Derek Jones
Owner - Tower Barn Appraiser - The Project Company
21450 Pomroy Ave N 2958 Sheridan Ave. N
Scandia, MN 55073 Minneapolis, MN 55411
Appraisal for Tower Barn Components
This is an appraisal for barn components, dated pre-1895, that have been dismantled from
the original location, transported and stored in a non-conditioned barn. The components
have had nails/fasteners removed and cleaned with a pressure washer. They are stored
with the appropriate cribbing and spacers while being kept dry. All seem to be in good
condition.
This antique timber frame barn encompasses a footprint of 876.38 sq. ft (27’ x 32’ 5 1/2”)
in addition to a second floor that brings the total to 1752.8 sq. ft.
All components have been disassembled without damage to the integrity of the wood and
are ready for reassembly into the original structure of the barn.
Based on our assessment of the barn components, the scarce nature of the hand-hewn
logs and rarity of large dimensions we would put appraised value of the complete
package at $81,000.00 (eighty-one thousand dollars).
This includes all of the logs listed in the table below and a set of the structure drawings.
Retail companies that provide salvaged lumber comparable to this lot include:
Big Wood Timber Frame Manomin Resawn Timbers
447 East 7th Street 15152 Freeland Avenue North
St. Paul, MN 55101 Hugo, MN 55038
(651) 298-8776 (651) 615-2136
THE PROJECT COMPANY 2958 Sheridan Ave. N. Minneapolis, MN 55411 Ph. (612) 558-6501
Big Wood Timber Frame has 2 Barn Kits for retail purchase and assembly. These two
kits (Hand Hewn Timber Barn) come in a configuration of 35’x54’ or 30’x60’ single
story (ave. 1800 sq. ft.) and cost $66,000.00 for components and $27,000.00 for field
assembly. Price includes frame/structure only with no roofing or siding components.
** The Tower Barn is unique in that it has a second floor. The footprint of the structure
is 27’x32.5’ with the 2 floor adding up to 1753 sq. ft. This 2nd. floor is considered a
premium in the market and adds value for rustic barns that are a rare find in this market.
Manomin Resawn Timbers only sells timber frame components with no plans or
coordination of building a structure.
They have a wide range of components available and the selection is rather random at
any given time. They range in size of 4’x4’x10-14’ to a maximum size of 6”x8”x16’ at
the time of this appraisal. On average the price range for these components is $39 per
lineal foot.
It can be $32 per lineal foot for smaller timbers of 4”x4” that is Hand Hewn. At the
larger sizes, pricing can be $42 per lineal foot for Hand Hewn timbers up to 6”x6” and
6”x8” (the largest width’s at this time).
There is also a premium for timbers that are longer than 12’ which can add $200 to $290
depending on the over all length of the timber. Most of the inventory at this location
reaches up to 16’ with longer timbers not available.
** The Tower Barn has the second floor boards ranging in sizes from 6”x6” to 6”x12”
wide with all their length’s at 27’. Manomin Resawn Timbers could not give a price or
estimate for these boards because of their large size and very long length. We could
estimate that these 15 boards at 27’ in length (totaling 405 lineal feet) could
conservatively be worth $49 a lineal foot, with a total value of $19,845.00.
Most of the timbers for the Tower Barn are 4”x6” or larger in dimension and the length’s
can be as much as 32’6”.
If we take average size of the timbers from the inventory list (6”x6” and 6”x8” for pricing
purposes at $39 per lineal foot) and the total length of all material (2167’ lineal ft.) we
total the components at a value of $84,513.00.
**** Combining the enhanced value of a two story barn (ready to assemble), the
unique large width’s and long length’s of the timbers in the Tower Barn, we can
conservatively average out the appraised value at $81,000.00.
THE PROJECT COMPANY 2958 Sheridan Ave. N. Minneapolis, MN 55411 Ph. (612) 558-6501
THE PROJECT COMPANY 2958 Sheridan Ave. N. Minneapolis, MN 55411 Ph. (612) 558-6501
T OWER BARN COMPONENTS
Material Description Qty.Length Total Lin. Ft.
46 Hand hewn studs 4” thick 46 16 736
4”x4” 4”x6”
Hand hewn top plates 2 32’ 5 1/2”65
Hand hewn top plates 2 27’52
Lower level posts 5 9’45
5” x 5”
Hand hewn girders 2 32’ 5 1/2”64
6”x 6”
Hand hewn log loft floor boards 15 27’405
6x6” to 6x12”
Hand hewn queen posts 2 9’18
Hand hewn queen posts gables 2 9’18
Hand hewn queen purlin-braces 4 14’56
Sawn queen purlin-braces 4 14’56
Hand hewn purlins 2 32’ 5 1/2”64
Long log rafters 20 20’400
Short log rafters 10 16’160
Barn doors 1 9’ x 7’
1 8’ x 10’
4” Studs length 16’
6” Studs length 16’
4” Studs
Short Log Rafters
Qty 10 - 4” x 5” x 13’
Long Log Rafters
Qty 20- 4” x 5” x 20’
Both Rafter Length’s shown
Floor Length - loft floor boards
Qty 15 - 6” by various widths x 27’
Qty 2 Top plates 6” x 6” x 32’ 5 1/2”
Qty 2 Girders 6” x 6” x 32’ 5 1/2”
Misc. 8’ - 10’ pcs typically 4” x 6”
Misc. 7’ pcs.
Misc. 7’ and 9’ Logs
Misc. 9’ Logs
56
Appendix 6a
Costs estimates by contractor
Continued on next page
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Appendix 6 Total Development Cost estimates by SHA
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Appendix 7 Participants in Amphitheater Design Planning Sessions
NAME ASSOCIATION ROLE
THEATER
Nicole Bartelt Zephyr Theatre, Stillwater Board Chair
Calyssa Hall Frosted Glass Productions, Marine on St. Croix Owner and Producer
Isaac Bont Festival Theatre, St. Croix Falls Executive Director
Darby Lunceford Lakeshore Players Theatre, White Bear Lake Executive Director
Sara Brabec Masquers Theatre Company, Forest Lake Board President
David Macdonald and Monette
Magrath Macdonald
Professional actors and Scandia
residents
Actor and Actress
Jon Ferguson Independent Director, Producer, Educator
MUSIC / SOUND
Kyle Tennis Riverside Entertainment, Marine on St. Croix Owner and manager of five live music bands
Steve Wiese Creation Audio, Minneapolis Owner of Creation Audio recording studio and a musician
Chris Frymire Cedar Cultural Center and Scandia resident Technical Director (sound engineer)
Bryan Knisley Central Acoustics Owner and acoustical engineer
ARCHITECTURAL PLANNING
Peter Hilger, AIA Rylaur, LLC Principal Architect
Vicki Heschke Design Right Drafting Architectural Drafter
APPENDIX 8 - PREDESIGN CHECKLIST
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1.Review the Contents of a Predesign Submittal in the State's Predesign Manual .weblink: http://mn.gov/admin/govemment/construction-projects/manuals-2:uidelines
forms/index.1sr
2.Structure the format of your Predesign submittal to contain the Components of
Predesign. Include component tabs to readily identify and access each component.
The components are:a.Predesign Summary Statementb.Basis for Need -Project Backgroundc.Agency/Organization Planningd.Project Description1.Architectural/Engineering Program2.Precedent Studies
3.Technology Plan
4.Sustainability, Energy Conservation, and Carbon Emissions5.Operations and Maintenance Requirements6.Statute Requirements
7.Specialty Requirements8.Project Procurement and Delivery9.Quality Control Plane.Site Analysis and Selection
f.Financial Informationg.Schedule Information
3.Section 1 -Predesign Summary Statement. Work with the user agency to developthe executive summary. Be brief, with a two or three paragraph scope description ofthe project. Below the description include costs, funding sources and schedule.
4.Section 1 Predesign Summary Statement: Complete the "Building/Project Data
Sheet" to tabulate the pertinent data upon which the cost estimates are based. Includethis sheet as a second page to the Section 1 -Predesign Summary Statement.
5.Section 1 Predesign Summary Statement: If the project involves remodeling of anexisting building, use the "Building Audit Sheef' to perform an audit/survey of thebuilding's major components, systems and their conditions. Use and amend the
"Building/Project Data Sheet" to indicate the scope of work for the proposed project.Insert behind the Summary Statement.
6.Section 2 Basis For Need-Project Background: Gather the Section 3 planninginformation from the Agency/Organization and synthesize it into the format shown inthe example. Detailing the Mission, Strategic Plan, Operational Plan and Basis forNeed for the project. At the back of this include any additional backgroundinformation on the project from your work with the agency.
7.Section 2 Basis For Need-Project Background: Verify that the scope of thepredesign complies with the language of the appropriation. (For projects that
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have already received a legislative appropriation).
8.Section 3 Agency/Organization Planning:This Section supports the Basis forNeed-Project Background. Obtain the following from the user agency/organization: a.Planning documents such as org charts, mission statement,b.Strategic plan, andc. Operational plan for the project.This information would include any supporting data, analysis or studies which support the proposed project and demonstrates the need for the project by linking it to the agency's mission, strategic and operational plans; which, in turn were used to " prepare Section 2. N/A Le, C-4...\ l>r-o,�c..:r. Cc t-r-p \ ;e,5 � i � S �o-
�...,_, �,,�t:.t a..�(\. � � l> \o..."' , 9. Section 3 Agency/Organization Planning: Included a list and narrative regarding the stakeholders involved and affected by the project (i.e. other agencies, organizations, and entities). Also include issues that remain to be resolved among stakeholders along with budget and schedule impacts upon the project.
10.Section 3 Agency/Organization Planning:Impacts on Operations, Budget and Facility Staff are detailed.
11. Section 4.A Architectural /Engineering Program: ( For State Agency projects) Obtain and coordinate space planning standards with the Department of Administration. Then, include a review sign-off from The Department of Administration's Real Estate and Construction Services Division. Focus on job related functional needs and the State's Space Guidelines when developing the square foot areas of spaces. (Space Guidelines are located at http://mn.gov/admin/government/construction-projects/ ).
12. Section 4.A Architectural/Engineering Program. Work with the user/owner to develop the space program. Employ a participatory programming methodology similar to the example) to analyze operations and activities. a.Your methodology should consider Post-Occupancy Evaluation (POE).
13.Section 4.A Architectural/Engineering Program.:Complete the Space Needs
Inventory sheet for each room of the project. Include these sheets in the predesign document. The Space Needs sheet should also identify special Mechanical or Electrical needs or upgrades for the space. For instance, you would state the need for special humidification for wood instrument storage in a music classroom.
□14. Section 4.A Architectural/Engineering Program.:Prepare and include a detailed architectural space program with a Table of Spaces and their respective areas (square footages) with a total of assignable and gross square feet.
□15. Section 4.A Architectural/Engineering Program.: Provide adjacency diagramsof all spaces and a diagrammatic/conceptual layout of spaces. Superimpose thesediagrams onto the Site Plan to show building/site fit and site relationships. $ )!� -p\4..1n �CLS 6-e12."" o...ippre>v� \;,� � C:;� Df
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□ 16.Section 4.A Architectural/Engineering Program.: On state agency projects,
identify potential MINNCOR Industries www.minncor.com and Minnesota State
Industries products http://stateindustries.org for the project.17.Section 4.A Architectural/Engineering Program. (for State Agency Projects): Ifapplicable to the agency, work with the user agency to incorporate a TelecommutingPlan for this project. Include the Telecommuting Plan with the Predesign submittaldocument. Obtain review & response letter from MN.IT.18.Section 4.A Architectural/Engineering Program. Develop the Furniture, Fixturesand Equipment (FF&E) needs and include the associated costs as a line item in theproject cost estimate. Consider Interior/Exterior Signage Exterior landscaping andfixtures, Telecommunication devices, Security Camera System, Lockers, Trashcompactor, Window washing equipment, phasing costs, and Moving costs. (Note:moving costs are not bondable ).19. Section 4.B Precedent Studies: Research the project. Visit similar building typesand include precedent projects into the predesign document and how the precedentaffects the proposed project. Include information on the facilities (name, location,
size, design features); Then indicate any features that will be incorporated into theproposed project. Special attention should be paid to design features that result inefficiency of program operations and ability to reduce long term operating costs.20.Section 4.C Technology Program (for State Agency Projects): Identify anddocument the technology needs for the project. Develop a Technology Plan for theproject using the State's Technology agency (MN.IT) guidelines ("BuildingInfrastructure Guidelines for State Owned Buildings") located at:
http://mn.gov/admin/government/construction-projects/. Technology plan is to bereviewed by MN .IT.21.Section 4.C Technology Plan (for State Agency Projects): Forward the
Technology Plan to MN.IT (The State's Information Technology Agency) forreview; and obtain a written letter from MN.IT. Incorporate any changes requestedby MN.IT.22.Section 4.D Sustainability, Energy Conservation and Carbon Emissions: Inaccordance with Minnesota Statute §16B.235 identify Sustainable and HighPerformance goals for the project using "The State of Minnesota Sustainable
Building Guidelines" at http://www.b3mn.om:/!rnidelines/index.html . Include a
summary table of goals & strategies. Also include the B3-MSBG project submittalreport for the Predesign Phase that is generated by use of the B3-MSBG Tracking Tool athttp://www.b3mn.org/guide1ines/index.html .
This requirement applies when the project is new building, addition, or majorrenovation. See the Applicability rules at the B3-MSBG website.23.Section 4.D Sustainability, Energy Conservation and Carbon Emissions:Include a table of strategies to comply with Sustainable Building (SB) 2030requirements. For SB2030 requirements, see: http://www.mn2030.umn.edu
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24.For the Section 4.D Sustainability, Energy Conservation and Carbon Emissions:
In accordance with MN Statute § 16B.32, a identify alternative energy uses andassociated systems. This applies to a new building or for a renovation of 50 percentor more of an existing building or its energy systems. Anticipate future designswhich use active and passive solar energy systems, earth sheltered construction, and
other alternative energy sources where feasible.
25.Section 4.D Sustainability, Energy Conservation and Carbon EmissionsWhen the project is for a State Agency, provide a cost-benefit analysis for a)including alternative energy (wind and/or solar) sources to provide 2% of theproposed building's energy consumption. An example of an analysis is located
at:http://mn.gov/admin/business/vendor-info/constructionprojects/Guidelines/predesign.jspb)a 40 Kw "Made in Minnesota" photovoltaic solar system
26.Section 4.D Sustainability, Energy Conservation and Carbon Emissions:For compliance with MN Statute 16B.326, provide a written plan in the predesign to consider providing Geothermal and Solar Energy Heating & Cooling Systems on
new or replacement HV AC systems. An example of an analysis is located at the web link above. 6e.o+her-\'Vl & �ill b-e. Cl>�$, �ed. b'<\fV A. c..., 27.Section 4.D Sustainability, Energy Conservation and Carbon Emissions:
Include a narrative in the predesign that the project specifications are to include requirements for the contractor to submit a "Waste Management and Recycling Program Plan" for both demolition and construction.
28.Section 4.D Sustainability, Energy Conservation and Carbon Emissions:Estimated yearly energy consumption and associated costs are included.
29.Section 4.E Operations and Maintenance Requirements: Conduct information
gathering and program meetings with operations and maintenance staff. Documentand include these needs into the predesign.
30.Section 4.E Operations and Maintenance Requirements: For Projects located onthe Capitol Complex, obtain "Plant Management Preferred Equipment List","Capitol Complex Guidelines", and "Signage Guidelines". ( available athttp://nm.gov/admin/government/construction-projects/manuals-euidelines
fom1s/index.jsp ). Include these documents in the Predesign document as
instructions for the future design team.
31.Section 4.F Statute Requirements:
See Appendix 4c for statute requirements related to all projects receiving any amount of state funding. Enter information on how the project will comply with each statute and include in the final predesign document.
32.Section 4.F Statute Requirements,: Review the table of statutes contained in
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this manual. Identify the statutory requirements for the project. These are to be
included in the final Predesign Document. 33.Section 4.F Statute Requirements: Include any design requirements or othermandated requirements.
a.The statute that gives authority for the operational program
b.Licensing requirements. (i.e. Department of Health or other authority)
c.Design requirements (i.e.. American Correctional Association
standards).d.Operating Standards (required State, Federal, & Industry standards)e.Federal Statutes/Laws/Requirements.
f.Significant Building Code or land use/ zoning requirements.34.Section 4. G Specialty Requirements: Review the need to conduct a securityand/or vulnerability assessment for the project. Include the study in the predesigndocument along with associated costs. Ac..�� � ,h' c:. o...11'\ a.. l '1 s j S. fb r-J.
t:Ad-A.oo'Y' A;.""'�;� e,o(u...,p l,e., k 35.Section 4. G Specialty Requirements: Include any unique requirements that are
applicable to the specific project. i.e. performance requirements, unique testing
requirements, environmental reports, assessments, impact statements, facility condition audits that may have been done, hazardous materials surveys, unique construction, restrictions. 36.Section 4.G Specialty Requirements: For renovations and demolitions, verify ifthe building or structure or amenity is on the register of historic places and/ or withina historic district. Meet with the State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) todetermine requirements. Include all SHPO requirements in the predesign as well asall specialty consultants (historic preservationist, archeologist) required for the futuredesign team. N / A b \Ut--��...., � / Nl- .-.JLr � °" w i ff if I\ tl) \\ c:,-w .l,.e_c.... �,e_+o-, 'V-�• � � Cl.1�-�.;'j 1 � +fi> 0 v..)CL � (.D"\\._s"U. � ,37.Section 4.H Project Procurement and Delivery: Provide a written statement andrecommendation of the proposed construction delivery method to be used on theproject. Include the reasons for this selection. Options include: Design-Bid-Build,Best Value, Construction Manager at Risk, Design-Build.38.Section 4.1-Project Design Services and other Owner Costs: Provide a listingof all costs that will be incurred in order to build the project.39.Section 4.J-Quality Control Plan: Provide a listing of all quality controlservices and costs that are needed and will be incurred in order to building theproject.40.Section 5 Site Analysis and Selection: Provide a narrative on why the preferred
site was selected for the project based on the locations that best meet pre-identifiedsite criteria. For State-owned buildings/State Agency projects, coordinate this effortwith the Department of Administration, Real Estate and Construction Services.
41.Section 5 Site Analysis and Selection: When locating or relocating or whenproposing a new building or renovation, the Predesign Document must include an
PREDESIGN CHECKLIST -continued
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analysis of the agency's location(s) using "Criteria for Locating State Offices and Agencies" located at: http://mn.gov/admin/govemmenticonstruction-pro1ect."
42.Section 5 Site Analysis and Selection: If the proposed project is a new building
that will be in a campus setting (i.e. school, university, prison, extended care); review
location options on the campus in regards to efficient operation and programs
provided on the campus. (i.e. Agency masterplanning of a campus should occur inorder to give direction as to future growth and organization -Note: Masterplanningis not a bondable activity).
43.Section 5 Site Analysis and Selection: Verify if the project will be required toundergo a State Environmental Review. To determine this, go to:http://www.eqb.state.mn.us/EnvRevGuidanceDocuments.htm. If required the
predesign will need to include all applicable information and direction to the future
design team to provide assistance to the owner and responsible government unit inconducting an environmental assessment (EA W) and environmental impactstatement (EIS).
Note: If the project includes federal dollars, determine the need to complete an
Environmental Assessment in accordance with the National EnvironmentalProtection Act (NEPA).Include all applicable guidelines for EA W s and EISs into the predesign submittal
document if available; if not include costs for these in the project budget. Identify
required timelines in the project schedule.
44.Section 6 Financial Information: Compile the project costs using theDepartment of Minnesota Management and Budget's Capital Budget Request
spreadsheet form (this form is included in this manual). Complete this form andinclude it in the submitted Predesign document.
45.Section 6 Financial Information: Compile the projected operating costs using
the State Operating Costs form (this form is included in this manual). Otherformats/forms are also acceptable.
46.Section 6 Financial Information, review the Project Delivery Method (singleprime, multiple prime, design/build )for impact on the Cost Plan for the project.
47.Section 6 Financial Information, include design fees for special consultants inthe project costs (i.e. food service, acoustical, security, etc.).
48.Section 6 Financial Information, verify existing utility infrastructures foradequate capacity needed to support the proposed building/facility or renovation.Incorporate costs for upgrades into the budget.
49.Section 6 Financial Information: If applicable and/or desired, include percentfor Art in the project cost. Statute 16B.35 Subdivision 1 applies [ up to 1 % of theappropriation can be allocated to art in public buildings -Detention facilities andnon-public buildings are exempt.]
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50.Section 6 Financial Information: Assist the user agency in identifying and
incorporating contingency phasing and funding plans into the predesign to anticipatequestions during legislative hearings.
51.Section 6 Financial Information: When the proposed project is for an existing
correctional facility, obtain the contractor security requirements for the facility and
include appropriate cost and schedule adjustments. (Working in a secure facility will
add approximately 15-20% cost to the project).
52.Section 6 Financial Information: On major building projects, use the predesignto develop an options based strategy for the agency to use in approaching the
governor and legislature when requesting funding. The predesign should anticipatepossible questions by presenting options for varying scopes and costs. Examples are:
1)It may make sense to break out options ( and costs) to spread the fundingrover several capital bonding sessions.2)Phasing of the project
53.Section 6 Financial Information: For renovations, a Facility ConditionAssessment has been conducted on the existing building and associated upgradecosts are included in the estimate.
54.Section 6 Financial Information: Conduct an industrial hygiene investigation todetermine ifthere are any hazardous material/asbestos abatement clean-up costs, fueltank removal and/or contaminated soils clean-up costs for the proposed project orsite.
55.Section 6 Financial Information: Provide the Life Expectancy of the majorbuilding components and building as a whole and included in the predesign
document. Show comparison costs of varying construction systems/components andtheir life span. Indicate the selected system that was used to prepare the costestimates.
56.Section 6 Financial Information: (For State Agency projects) State's DesignGuidelines were reviewed and associated costs accounted for.
57.Section 7 Schedule Information: Include a schedule narrative and bar chart in
the submittal document. Include time for hazardous material abatement, site clean
up, fuel tank removal and soils replacement costs, project schedule phasing time,relocation/move time, and any potential long-lead material deliveries.
58.Section 7 Schedule Information: Include a quality control/coordination reviewof the construction documents by a third party. Include the cost cost of this in the
design budget. Indicate a minimum of2 months in the schedule for this review.
59.For State Agency projects: Complete the Technology Checklist. Insert theMN.IT letter indicating they have reviewed and approved the Technology and
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Telecommuting Plans.
60.This predesign document contains all the necessary requirements and costs for:a.The owner to confidently pursue funding based on the cost estimates
contained. b.The owner to advertise for design services and structure their contract with
a design firm as to the design scope of work and fee; and, c.The future design team for all project requirements in order to carry outthe proposed design. d.All owner costs required to deliver the proposed project.
61.Include the SIGNATURE sheet, with signature of the ARCHITECT (see page
1 ).
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1.Obtain a copy ofMN.IT's "Building Infrastructure Guidelines For State-Owned
Buildings" and review the requirements for costs to be included in the project. Forfuture design use, should the project be funded, include the Technology Plan andguidelines in the predesign submittal.2.In coordination with MN.IT, determine the need for and develop a Technology &Telecommunications Plan for the project. Form and convene a Predesign meeting todetermine the agency's technology needs, goals, timelines and objectives. ThePredesign Team will consist of, but will not be limited to:□Agency/customer□Real Estate and Construction Services' (RECS) Project Manager□Telecommunications Analyst (S)/Designer (if required for predesign)Note: The State's (RECS) Project Manager will provide the MN.IT contact name. 3.For remodeling projects, verify existing technology infrastructures for adequatecapacity. Include upgrade costs in the Cost Estimate.4.Identify the user agency's short and long range plans for technology needs .5.Identify if the project is or will be a single building or campus configuration .6.Identify existing distribution rooms and their capacity.7.Identify requirements for new distribution rooms .8.Identify Fiber Optic requirements, existing locations, new fiber lines .9.Identify copper-wiring requirements, existing and new .10.If information technology work is to be within an existing building, identifyexisting conditions; i.e. floor & ceiling heights & conditions, piping and ductconditions, water problems, feeder cable limitations, equipment room limitations.11.Identify existing telecommunications infrastructure service to the building .12.Identify types of existing cable trays and requirements for new cable trays .13.For projects in existing buildings, identify available communications "pairs"coming into the building.14.Identify MPOP (Main Point of Presence), APOP (Alternate Point ofPresence), Internet Point of Presence locations and needs.15.Forward a copy of the project Technology Plan and Telecommuting Plan toMN.IT.16.Obtain a written letter from MN.IT indicating acceptance of the Technology
PREDESIGN CHECKLIST -continued TECHNOLOGY & TELECOMMUNICATIONSComplete NIA
Plan and Telecommuting Plan for the project. Incorporate MN.IT's letter into the Predesign Document.
□ • 17.Incorporate any changes into the Technology Plan as requested by MN.IT(resulting from review of agency's technology plan for the project).• □ 18.Verify existing utility infrastructures for adequate capacity and cost upgradesneeded to support the proposed building/facility or renovation.
PREDESIGN CHECKLIST Check off the above items as they are completed and include this checklist with your final submittal document. Completion of this checklist is MANDATORY.
CONSULTANT SIGNATURE:
r-n/l A � Signature:----��..__.����---
Name of Project: L,:>A -re!J... Tt> l.v eR. 'BARIJ SCA� t) Z A--
Printed Name: J"� HN WE R.� A-N
Agency: C.\•Y &'\= Sc...A-,-.l'bl4
Title: 'J?RE'Sl I>E't-1 T
Facility: N./A
Company: HS�\-{ AN R'E:A-L �Sffi'.T'E A-'O'll 1ot� S I L�c:..,
State Project No. ___ 1-1--=+/._,_h_.___ ____ _ I
1
Special Appropriation Application for Construction Projects
Application Cover Sheet
Project Name: Water Tower Barn Scandia Arts and Heritage
Center
Project Address or Location: xxx Olinda Trail, Scandia City Commons,
Scandia, MN 55073
County Where Project Is: Washington
Applicant/Grantee: City of Scandia
Project Contact Person: Kyle Morell
Title: City Administrator
Address: Scandia City Hall, 14727 209th Street
City: Scandia, MN 55073
Phone: 4455-(763) 355
E-Mail Address: kmorell@ci.scandia.mn.us
Minnesota SWIFT Vendor number: 0000200869
Mailing Address Assigned by SWIFT: Scandia City Hall, see above.
Grantee Type: Statutory City, Home Rule Charter City or Other (if other indicate type):
The Grantee is the City of Scandia, a Statutory City; the Scandia Heritage Alliance,
a Minnesota non-profit corporation and 501(c)(3) charitable organization, will be the
Project Lessee/User pursuant to the Lease/Use Agreement
NOTE: DEED will not provide funds to a title company or any other entity on behalf of the
grantee. Funds will be provided directly to the grantee, preferably into a separate account
that is created for the project.
Legislative Authorization
2
Legislative Citation that Authorizes Project: (Chapter #, Article #,section, subdivision):
Minnesota Laws, 2023, Ch. 72, Art. 2, §9, Subd. 7
Legislative Language: (Paste full legislative language below or attach as a separate item):
Subd. 7.
Scandia; Water Tower Barn Arts and Heritage Center
$2,200,000
For a grant to the city of Scandia to predesign, design, construct,
furnish, and equip the Scandia Water Tower Barn Arts and Heritage
Center in the city of Scandia. This appropriation is for the
reconstruction and rehabilitation of the historic Scandia water tower
barn for reuse as a regional arts and heritage center, along with
construction of an amphitheater and site improvements. This facility
will be located adjacent to the Gammelgarden Museum and will
complement the telling of the important story of the state's original
Swedish immigrant community. The water tower barn is the state's only
remaining water tower barn tank house and is eligible for listing on the
National Register of Historic Places for its unique engineering
significance and the role that tank house facilities played in the
evolution from the agrarian to the early 20th century mercantile
economy.
Project Narrative
Please provide a thorough narrative overview of the project. Include steps necessary for
implementation, background and description of the work to be performed.
Include any work that may have already been performed such as land acquisition, pre-design or
design, or other aspects of a larger or phased project.
Note: If construction has already started, inform DEED immediately.
Each Special Appropriation project is unique and has different compliance areas. A detailed
narrative is required as DEED can best assist with compliance and project success when it has a
solid understanding of the project. Make sure that all elements and activities that are outlined in
the legislation are accounted for in the narrative. Renderings or diagrams may be submitted as
attachments to assist in describing the project.
Attach any community talking points or promotional information, background or application
and/or information that was provided to the Legislature and the Minnesota Office of
Management and Budget staff that outlined the project.
Provide Narrative Here:
See Predesign Documentation for a detailed description of the Project, dated May 5, 2025,
particularly Introduction, p. 5;
Preliminary Schematic Drawings, Exhibit 5, p. 11; and Predesign Summary, p. 21.
3
Summary Description Excerpt from Predesign:
The Project has three principal elements:
• Reconstruction of the historic Scandia Water Tower Barn using
salvaged materials (donated to SHA) in a historically appropriate
manner, to serve as a small theater, historical museum, program
and event space;
• Site improvements including a rain garden and stormwater
retention pond, children’s splash pad, site grading, parking, trail
connections, and site landscaping; and
• An outdoor amphitheater, capacity of approximately 250
persons, for musical, theatrical, and other similar
performances.
And the Project is a critical link in a third element:
• A connection to public trail infrastructure (wetland trail loop and Gateway
State Trail).
The Project is located in the Scandia Community Commons in the City
center. The site will be leased by the City to SHA for the purposes of
operating the “governmental program” of an arts and heritage center,
and will be operated by SHA or an affiliated special purpose entity. SHA
is a Minnesota non-profit corporation and has 501(c)(3) tax status. It is a
community based entity.
Other funding (from the Environmental Trust Fund, Legislative
Citizen’s Commission on Minnesota Resources (LCCMR), the wetland
trail and boardwalk is an LCCMR 2025 allocation recommendation) is
anticipated this legislative session to provide for wetland interpretive
trail and boardwalk across the site’s largest wetland to connect the
Project to the nearby Scandia City Hall and Community Center and
provide a destination for the William O’Brien State Park to Scandia
Gateway Trail extension to be built in 2026. The Project includes a
segment of the wetland trail, which will be built using private funds as
part of the local match for the wetland trail. This segment is in the
Project budget. The balance of the wetland trail is a City project and
not part of the Project.
The Project concept grew out of the efforts of the community-based SHA to
preserve and re-erect the Water Tower Barn, a unique historical
structure. Other goals include providing a destination facility at the
terminus of the Gateway State Trail in Scandia and to create a synergy
with the Gammelgården Museum, a statewide attraction celebrating the
Swedish immigrant experience.
After City approval of the Project in 2022, it was proposed for State
capital investment and recommended by the Governor and approved by
the Legislature in 2023.
The Project appropriation does not require a non-state match. SHA has
raised sufficient non-State funds and received contributed professional
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services and building materials and other services to meet the “build to
completion” requirement of the appropriation. The Project schedule calls
for design work to be completed in May 2025, final bidding in June, and
construction to commence in late Summer or Fall 2025.
The major Project elements were identified in various City plans before the
legislative request for funding was made: the amphitheater in the Open Space
Plan, wetland preservation and interpretation in the Open Space Plan and
multiple City ordinances, preservation of the City’s historic character
(supported by reconstruction of the Water Tower Barn) in the Land Use
Plan, and connection with the State Gateway Trail connection to William
O’Brien State Park in multiple City actions on the Gateway extension.
Because of this, some elements of normal Predesign are not fully applicable.
The Project site plan, see Exhibit 3, has been approved by the City of
Scandia under the Redevelopment Agreement, and the City has acted to
zone the property Planned Unit Development (“PUD”) to allow the
proposed Project uses. As part of the PUD approval, the City has
approved all needed code changes for the use. Normal City Planning
approvals are not anticipated to raise any issues. The Project has also
been positively reviewed by Washington County Public Works for
road/driveway access and by the Washington County Conservation
District and the local Watershed District for beneficial wetland and rain
garden impacts. These approvals and consultations are a critical part of
the predesign process and were undertaken before the legislative request
was submitted.
The Predesign Documentation includes photos, maps, trail linkages, the approved
site plan, and substantial detail on re-erection of the Water Tower Barn.
The Project site is owned by the City of Scandia. After an evaluation of multiple
sites, this location was selected and the City agreed to enter into a 99-year lease
for the Project. The City also requested the state grant, which was approved as a
general fund grant in 2023. The City and the SHA have been working on typical
steps for Project advancement since that time. This has included survey, zoning
and land use approvals, site plan preliminary and final reviews, wetland
delineation and typing, informal consultations with other regulatory or advisory
agencies (Watershed District, County Public Works, Washington County
Conservation District, Minnesota State Historic Preservation Office, and others).
SHA also has held multiple public meetings and met with many potential
collaborators for programming participation (examples, five regional community
theater groups, nearby schools).
Ownership and Usage
Answer all questions below. If the question is not applicable, state such and why
Who is the current owner of the project’s footprint: City of Scandia
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Who is the current owner of the project (building, structure or facility), if not new construction:
The Water Tower Barn historical materials have been donated to SHA and now are the
property of SHA.
How will ownership be transferred to the applying entity if the applying entity does not yet own
the footprint, building, structure, or facility:
The City of Scandia will enter into a Lease/Use Agreement with SHA. We currently expect
this will be for one-half the useful life of the facility (to meet the State’s requirements), first
lease term, 17.5-years, with two potential renewals at City’s option, for 17.5 and 9.75. After
the State limited period, the SHA expect to enter into a lease for the balance of the 99-years
(previously approved by the City.
Who will operate and maintain the property or facility (project) after project completion: SHA
will operate and maintain the facility/Project.
Will there be any other users or tenants of the facility other than the owner: (Yes/No): Yes, It is
anticipated that multiple community organizations will use the facility for programming,
including theater and music events, classes, museum and art shows, community meetings,
social gatherings, etc. All will be short-term rentals from SHA or programming in
partnership with SHA.
If so, will any of these tenants be frequent users or already have a lease/use agreement (Yes/No):
None will be frequent users, and no lease/use sub agreements have been entered into. All
will comply with normal requirements.
If unsure, please contact DEED
If so, name the users or tenants and how they would use the completed project: N/A
Will the project involve executing a naming rights agreement with any entity (Yes/No): Yes, two
existing, and possibly more, major donors have requested formal acknowledgements of
naming recognition. State required language will be added to any naming rights agreement.
We have reviewed same with MMB counsel.
Will any advertising be sold that will be displayed at the project site (Yes/No): No
If Yes – Describe what kinds of advertising will be sold: N/A
Describe who will own, operate and maintain the property and/or facility after project completion:
Scandia Heritage Alliance (SHA), a Minnesota non-profit corporation with
501(c)(3) tax status, will operate and maintain the Project under a Lease/Use
Agreement with the City of Scandia, to provide the “governmental program” set
forth in the appropriation language. SHA is a community based organization
created to celebrate Scandia’s historical and cultural heritage and generally
promote arts and culture.
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Questions
1. If applicable, do any aspects of the project have historical significance? If so, which
historical organizations will be consulted or need to approve any of the plans for
improvements or demolition of or to any building? If so, please outline how these
organizations will be involved. If they will not be involved, or their participation is
not applicable, please outline why:
The Water Tower Barn has significance as the only remaining water tower barn
with Aeromotor windmill pumping system remaining in the State. It was deemed
of engineering significance by the Minnesota State Historical Society. The SHA
has done extensive research on the building and engineering significance, see
Predesign, Appendix 2, Charlene Roise, Historical Building Analysis (funded by
the Minnesota Historical Society through the Arts and Heritage Fund) and
Appendix 4, Description of Salvaged historical materials, and Appendix 5, Water
Tower Barn Material Condition Information. SHA has consulted with the SHPO
and the Washington County Historical Society on the re-erection of the Water
Tower Barn.
2. Attach a map of the city with the location of the project indicated on the map: See
Predesign, Exhibits 3 and 4.
3. Attach engineering and/or architectural total project cost estimate documents. If not
available, how do we know the projected costs are professionally estimated:
See Predesign, Appendix 6a and 6b.
Total Development Costs: The current non-City direct budget for the total
Project development cost of $2.925 million, plus over $700,000 of donated services
and the value of the site and barn structure, and the City contributions (for land
and sidewalk) for a TDC of $3.765 million.
Construction Budget. The Project’s prospective estimated construction budget is
$2.65 million, the current soft cost budget is $275,000, plus approximately
$130,000 for the City sidewalk and Gammelgården street crossing. It has been
estimated by the Project general contractor after preliminary design, SHA based
on service quotes (e.g. structural and civil engineering), City land value estimate
and City engineer estimates for the sidewalk and road crossing.
Funding. The overall budget is based on currently available funds of $2.2 million
from the state grant, funds raised by SHA, $725,000, the donated services of over
$500,000 (architecture, materials, real estate consulting, other services) and the
site value, $200,000. Thus the Construction and soft costs of the Project are a
total of $2.925 M. Total development costs, including donated services and land
value is 3.625 M. Separately the City is paying for the connecting sidewalk on
Olinda and the Olinda crossing improvements to Gammelgården, estimated at
$130,000.
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4. What is the useful life of the project after completion? Generally, projects will not
have an assigned useful life of more than 30 years. Note that the pending grant
agreement and public ownership of the project will need to be maintained for 125% of
the useful life of the project. So, for example, a project with a useful life of 30 years
will have a grant agreement in effect for 37.5 years and need to be owned for the same
amount of time. Any sale or any change of use not outlined in the enabling legislation
would trigger repayment of a pro-rata share of grant funds back to the state.
35 Years, based on quality of construction, historical preservation purpose.
5. Does your organization have the capacity to float costs for up to a month before your
organization is reimbursed by DEED:
We anticipate a normal disbursement process, with monthly draws approved by the
architect, City, SHA, and DEED. All payments will be conditioned on lien waivers, so
payments will be +/- a month later. SHA has in hand funds for the up-front engineering
and other soft costs required to be paid before construction, and any the contractor costs
in the first months of construction.
6. Is your organization planning to secure a bank loan? Yes, to prefund amounts pledged,
estimated at less than $50,000.
If yes, please acknowledge that the DEED money will be in first lien position and that
you understand that any loan will take 2nd position by placing an X in the box to the
right. We anticipate the loan will be pledge backed and will be small enough
to not be secured on the Project. If it is, it will be subordinate to the State rights.
Project Budget
Proposed activities must match up with legislative language and should include all costs required
to complete the project. Complete Tables 1 and 2 below. Before completing, read the
instructions provided. Both contain samples for guidance.
Table 1
For the Project Activities Column: List separately the components of the project that are eligible
items: Capital costs and/or costs assigned in the legislative appropriation. Examples would be
predesign, design, and construction elements. List all non-eligible items that are needed for the
project as a separate line item. Add rows to the table for more costs as needed.
For Match/Other Funds: Provide the dollar amount for any match and/or other funds that are
estimated to be needed to complete the project. Examples - If the legislation mandates a 1:1 match,
the DEED funds should be equal to the Match/Other Funds column.
If the total project costs are estimated to exceed the DEED funds and the matching funds, enter the
amount of funds that are needed for each line that total the amount needed for the project.
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If there is no legislated match for the project, but other funds are needed to complete the estimated
project costs, provide those figures in this column as well.
Total Itemized Projected Costs: Make sure that all costs total correctly.
See Predesign, Appendix 6a and 6b. In addition, see discussion at pages 21-25. Except for
the City site donation and sidewalk and road crossing, the entire budget will be funded by
the State grant and funds raised separately by SHA.
Table 1 – Budget Outline
Samples omitted. The Project budget is in Appendix 6a and 6b of the Predesign. It accounts
for all activities in the Enabling Legislation.
Table 1 – Budget Outline (Line-Item Project Activities Will Account For ALL Activities In the
Enabling Legislation)
Table 2:
Instructions
Lists all eligible activity items from Table 1 in the first column of Table 2. Eligible items are
identified in the legislative language. Leave non-eligible items out of Table 2. Lists sources
individually, whether those funds are committed, and the dollar amount assigned for each source
in the second column. Per the sample below, outline the committed status of funds in the third
column. If not yet committed, outline how they will be committed. Attach more comments to
outline commitment, if necessary.
Finally, in the fourth column, assign the dollar amount of costs assigned to the source that
corresponds with that row. Add rows as necessary.
Funds from SHA, in cash, at $725,000, including the pledged back loan funds, will be used
either, first, with State funds second, or the funds will be used pari passu. The soft costs
required pre-construction will be 100% paid by SHA. Then the State and SHA will fund
remaining costs as indicated above.
Project Timeline
See Predesign, Schedule Information, p. 46-47.
All State funding is in place; sufficient funds to build to completion have been raised by SHA,
all approvals, except those after final design for construction have been obtained, the
Declaration will be entered into at closing. Completion is anticipated in fall 2026.
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Attachment 1 to application: Local Government Resolution
Special Appropriation Application
Applicants must adopt and submit the following resolution. This resolution must be adopted prior to submission
of the forms package.
BE IT RESOLVED that the City of Scandia (Entity Awarded Grant) act as the legal sponsor for
the project contained in Minnesota Laws, 2023, Ch. 72, Art. 2, §9, Subd. 7, entitled Scandia
Water Tower Barn Arts and Heritage Center.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the City of Scandia has the legal authority to receive financial
assistance, and the institutional, managerial, and financial capability to ensure adequate project
administration.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the sources and amounts of the local match identified in the
development proposal are committed to the project identified.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the City of Scandia has not violated any Federal, State or
local laws pertaining to fraud, bribery, graft, kickbacks, collusion, conflict of interest or other
unlawful or corrupt practice.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that upon approval of its development proposal by the state, City
of Scandia may enter into an agreement with the State of Minnesota for the above-referenced
project, and that City of Scandia certifies that it will comply with all applicable laws and
regulation as stated in all contract agreements.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the non-DEED source(s) of funds identified in the sources and uses
outline in the application total the amount of $750,000, and other donations of goods and services,
with a value of over $500,000 have been received, and are committed and adequate to fully fund the
project identified in the application.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that any source(s) of the Applicant’s funds to fully fund the project
shall be from the Scandia Heritage Alliance, the Lessee/User, which has an adequate amount of funds
to cover the commitment.
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Mayor and the City Administrator/Clerk
are hereby authorized to execute such agreements as are necessary to implement the project(s) on
behalf of the City of Scandia. Note: Do not include the proper name, only the title of the official.
Pursuant to M.S. § 412.201, Statutory Cities must authorize both the Mayor and Clerk to execute
all contracts.
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I CERTIFY THAT the above resolution was adopted by the City Council (City Council,
County Board, etc.) of the City of Scandia (Applicant) on ___________________(Date)
SIGNED: WITNESSED:
________________________________ ___________________________________
Steve Kronmiller Kyle Morell
________________________________ ___________________________________
(Mayor) (Date) (City Administrator/Clerk) (Date)
(Check the appropriate box for the Real Property and, if applicable, for the Facility.)
Ownership Interest in the Real Property.
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X Fee simple ownership of the Real Property.
A Real Property/Facility Lease for the Real Property that complies with
the
requirements contained in Section 2.06.
(If the term of the Real Property/Facility Lease is for a term authorized
by a Minnesota statute, rule or session law, then insert the citation:
________________.)
An easement for the Real Property that complies with the
requirements
contained in Section 2.06.
(If the term of the easement is for a term authorized by a Minnesota
statute, rule or session law, then insert the citation: ________________.)
Ownership Interest in, if applicable, the Facility.
Fee simple ownership of the Facility.
X A Real Property/Facility Lease for the Facility that complies with all of
the
requirements contained in Section 2.06.
(If the term of the Real Property/Facility Lease is for a term authorized
by a Minnesota statute, rule or session law, then insert the citation:
______________.)
Not applicable because there is no Facility.
Attachment 2 to Application: Legal Description
Provide the legal description only for the public land footprint on which the property or
facility is located.
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To be provided by Survey.
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Attachment 3 to Application: Conflict of Interest Disclosure
(To be completed by Mayor, Board Chair, or Equivalent)
Conflict of Interest Disclosure
State of Minnesota
Request for Proposals
Instructions: Please return your completed form as part of the Response submittal
This form gives applicants and grantees an opportunity to disclose any actual or potential conflicts
of interest that may exist when receiving a grant. It is the applicant/grantee’s obligation to be
familiar with the Office of Grants Management (OGM) Grants Policy 08-01 Conflict of Interest
Policy for State Grant-Making (August 2020 Effective Date 1/1/21) and to disclose any conflicts
of interest accordingly.
All grant applicants must complete and sign a conflict-of-interest disclosure form.
Conflict of Interest Disclosure Form
My grant organization does NOT have an ACTUAL or POTENTIAL conflict of
interest.
If at any time after submission of this form, I or my grant organization discover any conflict
of interest(s), I or my grant organization will disclose that conflict immediately to the
appropriate agency or grant program personnel.
I or my grant organization have an ACTUAL or POTENTIAL conflict of
interest. (Please describe below):
If at any time after submission of this form, I or my grant organization discover any
additional conflict of interest(s), I or my grant organization will disclose that conflict
immediately to the appropriate agency or grant program personnel.
Printed name: Scandia Heritage Alliance
Signature: ____________________________________________
Susan Rodsjo, Its President Date
Organization or Local Unit of Government Name: City of Scandia
Signature: ____________________________________________
Its Mayor Date: