Commissioners make budget amendment

St. Joseph County commissioners this week agreed to make a budget amendment to the county’s Commission On Aging fund balance.
The action was requested after COA director Tim Stoll gave a presentation centering on bids for an architect analysis and construction management for the agency’s potential new location at the former Three Rivers Inn.
Three companies were considered for project architect, with Kalamazoo-based Byce and Associates getting the nod. Stoll said its proposed fee was $187,000 – directly between the other two candidates – but a strong rating from an evaluation criteria formula resulted in its endorsement.
Regarding construction management, Stoll again said three companies were interviewed. Lowest bidder, Frederick Construction of Vicksburg, was awarded the job. Its quote was $209,560 and Frederick also scored highest in the evaluation criteria formula.
Commissioners also authorized $10,000 for an environmental study of the building and property.
Stoll speculated the project overall will cost about $3.5 million, as the former hotel would be remodeled to convert the existing 100 rooms into 46 units of affordable-housing for the county’s senior citizens.
The COA board during its monthly meeting Wednesday next week plans to conduct a walk-through of the site, Stoll said.