Fergus Falls council approves two-phase air-conditioning work for community arena

Fergus Falls councilors approved a resolution Feb. 27 to purchase and install air-conditioning units for sections of the community arena to address moisture and comfort problems during summer programming.

Staff explained that when the city acquired the chiller from the school district and separated the system, the city’s portion lost broad cooling capability. That loss led to moisture issues during last summer’s kid camps and ice programs. Mission Mechanical provided an estimate of roughly $58,000 to air-condition one portion (north half of the upper hallway) with a similar cost for the south portion; the city plans to execute the work as two separate projects to remain under a $100,000 state limit and later reconnect the chiller to broaden coverage.

A staff member (Bill) described the funding source as a restricted capital account leftover from arena construction with a cash balance of about $416,000; using the proposed project would reduce the balance but leave roughly $295,000–$300,000 for future arena-specific needs. Council members emphasized protecting city assets and preventing ongoing moisture damage. After questions about winter operation and dehumidifiers, the council voted by roll call to approve the resolution authorizing work and purchase.