City staff opened the new and improved city hall to residents last Thursday, Nov. 8, for a tour and plaque unveiling in celebration of the completion of the 14-month long renovation project.
Rhea Borja, a spokeswoman for the city, led attendees on an extensive tour of the building, showing off the new utility and billing area, city department offices and the city council chambers.
City Manager David Mickaelian and Assistant City Manager Joe Irvin were also on hand during the tour, answering questions and discussing the new, eco-friendly characteristics of the building.
Among other high-tech features, the building features a rainwater catchment system, demonstration garden with drought resistant plants and an energy-efficient HVAC system with noise dampening. The new, energy-efficient building will reduce operating costs and move the city toward its goal of zero net energy use.
Aesthetics-wise, the building has an open and airy feel, with cool colors, large windows and modern pendent lights.
Following the tour, Healdsburg Mayor Brigette Mansell helped Mickaelian cut a paper ribbon unveiling the building’s commemorative plaque, recognizing former and present city council members who helped see the vision for a new city hall through to its completion.
Mansell kicked off the ceremony with a few opening remarks, thanking residents for stopping by to celebrate the completion of the project.
“It takes a lot of work and collaboration, so I just want to say to everybody how proud I am to be standing here. It takes a lot of strong women and men to make this city hall beautiful … and now we can celebrate a home for our city and for our council chambers,” Mansell said.
Construction for the renovations and addition started in February of 2017 and was headed by Gelfand Partners Architects, Inc. and Carr Construction Service, Inc.
