Santa’s visit is part of a Holiday Open House event that will showcase the city’s newly renovated headquarters, which is also decorated for the holidays.

The holiday open house will include the opportunity to tour the public areas of the building, as well as to enjoy a hot chocolate bar, cookies, carolers, crafts, and more.

It will begin at 4:30 p.m. Wednesday in the Municipal Building, 819 First Ave. S.

“Our open house will celebrate the progress and investment in the city’s future,” said Amanda Holmes, communications manager. “This open house is a testament to the city’s commitment to maintaining and improving public spaces for its residents.”

-Messenger photo by Britt Kudla
The Municipal Building is decorated for the holiday season, and the public is invited to tour and see the newly renovated headquarters.

The renovation process on the Municipal Building began in 2007 when a team was formed to evaluate the building’s structure and needs. In 2009, a new roof was put on the building along with new boilers and a fresh air system in 2012.

In 2016, a major renovation began on the building’s front stairs and council chambers. An elevator was added, including ADA-compliant entry to the building and compliant restrooms.

In 2018, work was done on the building’s utility billing area, second floor restrooms, and improvements were made to the Parks & Recreation Department as well as to building security. In 2019, the building’s masonry restoration project was completed in two phases. In 2020, interior and exterior improvements were made, including work done to the city manager’s office, human resources, and the IT/server area. Old windows and garage door panels were replaced and the west staff entrance was renovated.

In 2021, the interior of the Business Affairs and Community Growth offices were updated along with modernizing the HVAC, mechanical and electrical systems. In 2022, the Broadband Administration Office and Engineering East Wing were renovated with new conference rooms and roof access ladders added.

Most recently, the parking lots were reconstructed this year which addressed pavement removal, storm sewer installation and the construction of ADA-compliant sidewalks and ramps.

-Messenger photo by Britt Kudla
The city's holiday open house will be held from 4:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Wednesday in the Municipal Building, 819 First Ave. S.

“We want the public to be able to see the results of the renovations firsthand and to explore the updates which have enhanced the functionality, accessibility, and beauty of City Hall,” said Holmes. “It’s an opportunity to witness how these changes benefit both employees and the community.”

City leaders along with staff and other community members will also be on hand for the open house.

Residents will also experience the Municipal Building decked out in holiday decorations.

“Karen Lawler does such an incredible job of decorating City Hall each year, and we’re so excited to be able to share it with the public,” said Holmes.

-Messenger photo by Britt Kudla
The city's holiday open house will begin at 4:30 p.m. Wednesday in the Municipal Building, 819 First Ave. S.