PROJECT TIMELINE

A feasability study on a proposed Regional Wellness Center was authorized. A referendum during the 2016 General Election proposing a half-cent local option sales tax was also authorized.

The City hired Bolton and Menk to complete a feasibility study for a Community Center. The study was then presented in October 2016 and Council made a motion to accept the community center feasibility study.

The community voted on the local option sales tax for the purpose of funding recreational amenities, trails, and/or a Fairmont Community Center. Results: Yes: 3032 and No:1923

The Fairmont Community Center Action Committee was formed to perform due diligence on the project. The city sent out letters to citizens interested in the project.

$125,000 for a community center business plan was approved.

The community center committee hires an architect/engineer.

The community center committee hires a construction manager.

A feasibility report was delivered. A discussion was held on a business plan, ownership, operations, construction and funding options. 

A public forum was held at the Fairmont Opera House.

Entered into an agreement with the YMCA of Albert Lea and Worthington. The YMCA was authorized to research the current status of recreational programming in Fairmont and develop potential programming for the community center.

The City of Fairmont commits $14,000,000 to construction of the community center when the committee raises an additional $6,000,000 in pledges. The council also approved up to $50,000 for a YMCA operating budget for 2020. The committee presented a plan that included a pool, fieldhouse, meeting/classroom space and fitness area in phase 1. Phase 2, including ice, wasn’t included in the presentation.

YMCA pulled back from programming and the project was delayed due to COVID. 

A city council work session reviewed work done to date, design/cost estimates of phase 1. The plan included expansion for ice in phase 2 contingent on finding additional funds. 

A City council work session was held to review the local option sales tax. Both the Fairmont Hockey Association and the Community Center committee were invited.

The community center committee clarifies that the vision is for both the YMCA and FYHA to co-exist in one building. RFPs are initiated for updated numbers, final design, and construction plans.

The Rosen Family, the Krahmer Family and Mayo Clinic Health System in Fairmont commit $4.5 million in funding.

The Fairmont Area Community Center Foundation is formed.

Council approves a 2-step Owner’s Representative Contract with Tegra. Step one will work with a design team to develop a schedule and budget.

The YMCA entered into a consulting agreement with the Fairmont Area Community Center Foundation.

Council approves to move forward with contract negotiations with 292 Design Group as Architect/Engineer and Kraus-Anderson as Construction Manager.