Architects hired by Danville officials presented initial design plans for the former BISCO building during Monday’s City Commission meeting.
Monica Sumner, who works for the Lexington-based firm Brandstetter Carroll, said she and other company representatives had toured the future public works building twice and conducted numerous interviews with city staff.
“This is very preliminary,” Sumner said regarding a poster display of her proposed design plan.
Sumner emphasized the importance of having not only ample storage space for sensitive equipment such as snow plows, but also a more organized working environment for departments such as water, public works and cemetery.
“I know there are great storage needs for the city,” Sumner said. “We will also need to store items for the future water plant for a year or two.”
Her proposed public works building would include locker rooms and a lunchroom.
Outgoing City Commissioner Ryan Montgomery said he would “caution” the city staff more than the architect team.
“We don’t have to use all the space at once,” Montgomery said. “We don’t have to build the Taj Mahal right now.”
Sumner emphasized again that the plans are very preliminary. She did not give an estimated cost during the presentation, and there was no call for the City Commission to take any action.
In other business, Mayor Bernie Hunstad honored Montgomery and outgoing Commissioner Gail Louis for their contributions to the city. “Departures are always bittersweet,” Hunstad said. “We had a great two years … Sometimes it’s hard to get people to get up and take the abuse they sometimes get, but there’s more good stuff than bad.”
Montgomery, who was defeated after serving one term, thanked the city’s employees, elected officials and residents.
“I thank you for the supportive criticism and general support,” Montgomery said.
Louis was seeking a third City Commission term and vowed to continue supporting all aspects of life in the community.
“My goal was to represent everyone in Danville no matter what their financial or social status,” Louis said. “I will do everything I can to make the city the place I grew up. This is my home.”
