"I want to create a signature building," he said. "There's benefits in terms of costs ... (and) message."

City staff are to start moving out of City Hall in July for a planned renovation. Its cost is now slated at $69 million.

Eisenberger fears the costs will only escalate. Though more expensive now, a new building saves the city money in the long term, by limiting the need for expansions.

Building a 400,000 square foot City Hall to house all staff would cost $150 million, but empty city core buildings of their main tenant.

Under Eisenberger's plan, the new City Hall would be scaled back, requiring the city to still rent space downtown. He's also optimistic about a partnership with the public school board.

Building new just isn't affordable for the city, argues Councillor Chad Collins, who fears the impact on taxpayers in the next few years. A renovated building will last for 30 to 50 years, he said. Source...